José Ruiz claimed off waivers by NL East team

Former Phillies pitcher José Ruiz is now an Atlanta Brave.

Ruiz, designated for assignment by the Phillies on June 1, was claimed off waivers by the Braves. Atlanta is on the hook for an estimated $765,600 of Ruiz’s remaining salary, according to MLB Trade Rumors. The right-hander signed a one-year, $1.225 million deal with the Phillies in the offseason, avoiding arbitration.

Ruiz struggled with Philadelphia in 2025. In 16 appearances out of the Phillies bullpen, Ruiz posted an 8.16 ERA. He spent 15 days on the injured list from May 3-18 with a neck spasm.

He was a good find for the Phillies the year prior. Signed to a minor league deal in November 2023, Ruiz spent most of the year as a reliable middle reliever, posting a 4.06 ERA in 52 appearances.

Ruiz will join the revolving door that is the Braves bullpen. Former Phillie Craig Kimbrel was DFA’d by the Braves after just one game.