Darin Ruf to Make First Phillies Start Tonight

After joining the big club on September 10th, Darin Ruf has spent most of his time riding the bench.  Nicknamed "Babe Ruf" in Reading after setting the Reading Phillies single-season home run record while winning the Eastern League MVP and Rookie of the Year, Ruf has yet to see a start in the major leagues.  That changes tonight.

Facing a left-handed starter, the Phillies hope Ruf's bat will give the lineup some life.  The Phillies have generally struggled against left-handed pitching.  Ruf will start in left field and bat seventh.  Recent left field starts against left-handed pitching have gone to Ty Wigginton, who had some adventures there.  In three plate appearances, Ruf is 0-2 and has a sacrifice fly to his credit.

Could this be a sign that the Phillies are realizing they do not have a chance to win the second Wild Card?  Possibly.  Hopefully we will get to see what Ruf can bring the team over the next nine games to see if he has a future in Philadelphia.

Greg will have the full lineup and game preview shortly.