Ruf and Mitchell to Minor Leauge Camp, Lopez Released
Ruf was hitting .246 after today’s game but the main concern according to team officials was defense. Branch says team officials say Ruf needs more seasoning in the outfield while staying sharp at first base. Jim Salisbury quotes General Manager Ruben Amaro as stating Ruf will play left field for the IronPigs five times a week while playing first once a week.
Mitchell, hitting .269/.321/.577 in Spring action, was not believed to have much of a chance to make the team out of camp despite his strong play while it was believed Lopez would be kept around as pitching depth. With two less outfielders, one has to believe Ender Inciarte’s chances of making the Phillies out of Spring Training have greatly increased.
