After struggling at the plate for much of the season, Washington catcher Keibert Ruiz is again showing why he is a key part of the Nationals' rebuilding plan. Ruiz will look to continue his hot streak when the Nationals begin a three-game series against the visiting Colorado Rockies on Tuesday. Ruiz homered for the third time in his last three appearances on Sunday, when Washington snapped a four-game losing streak with a 6-4 win over the Philadelphia Phillies.
The 26-year-old Ruiz has struck out just eight times in his last 137 at-bats since June 29. "(Ruiz is) staying behind the ball a lot better," Washington manager Dave Martinez said. "He's able to use his hands a lot better, and he's driving the ball, which is awesome.
We've always thought and we've seen it, that this is what Keibert can do." The Nationals also have received a spark from rookie left fielder James Wood, who is hitting .373 (28-for-75) with three homers and 15 RBIs in his last 21 games.
Colorado is beginning a six-game road trip after taking two of three from the previously red-hot San Diego Padres over the weekend. First baseman Michael Toglia has an 11-game hitting streak for the Rockies, who beat the Padres 3-2 on Sunday. "Three rookie pitchers, eight innings, against a team in contention that has been playing great the last three weeks on a hot Sunday afternoon in an offensive environment," Colorado manager Bud Black said.
"So great job. I'm proud of them." Colorado's Nolan Jones was activated from the.