Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Phillies Reliever Heading to Rival Braves After Roster Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Mike Ostrowski | Last updated Jun 7, 2025 5:15 PM ET

Back on June 1st, the Phillies decided to juggle their bullpen by promoting No. 12 prospect Seth Johnson back to the majors. To make room for the starter-turned-reliever on the roster, Philly designated José Ruiz for assignment.

Ruiz, who is out of minor league options, was exposed to waivers, giving the other 29 clubs a shot at claiming him. One of them did.

The NL East Rival Atlanta Braves, who have their own bullpen woes this season, chose to pick up Ruiz. They will hope that the 30-year-old righty can somewhat return to form after starting off 2025 with several issues.

RHP José Ruiz (DFA’d on 6/1) was claimed off waivers today by the Atlanta Braves.
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) June 7, 2025

Ruiz is in his seventh full season of major league action. Last year with Philadelphia, he pitched to a respectable 3.71 ERA with 52 strikeouts and a 1.33 WHIP in 51 innings.

However, this spring has presented one challenge after another for Ruiz. He struggled to the tune of an ERA just under 5 through April, went on the 15-day IL, then came back to more struggles. He allowed five runs in his last outing to the Mulwaukee Brewers, prompting Philly to cut ties.

Ruiz joins a Braves club that has gone through it's share of former Philly arms. Hector Neris and Enyel De Los Santos both made the club out of spring training. Neris was cut after a terrible first week, while De Los Santos is still on board with a sub-3 ERA. Craig Kimbrel returned to Atlanta as well, but he only pitched one game for them before being DFA'd.

Atlanta's bullpen is right in the middle of MLB with a combined 3.83 ERA. If Ruiz can reset in the new environment, he could cause problems for his old club with the division still far from decided.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: