The Dodgers’ trade of Carlos Ruiz to the Mariners — finalized on Monday — netted them a left-handed pitching depth in Vidal Nuno, but perhaps most importantly the deal likely opened up a chance for Austin Barnes to have a more permanent role on the major league roster.
Barnes was part of the return from the Marlins in the Dee Gordon trade two offseasons ago, and has put together a pair of solid years in Triple-A Oklahoma City.
He hit .315/.389/.479 in Triple-A in 2015, and .295/.380/.443 in 2016. Barnes stole 30 bases in 35 attempts in the minors the last two years, including 18 for 21 in 2016.