Carlos Ruiz will catch R.A. Dickey's knuckleball
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Carlos Ruiz will catch R.A. Dickey's knuckleball
Matt Gelb
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Much was made whether R.A. Dickey would start Tuesday's All-Star Game because of the knuckleballer's story that has captivated a nation. It turns out the Mets righthander will pitch in relief, and when he enters, it will be with Carlos Ruiz.
National League manager Tony La Russa said Ruiz will catch Dickey's knuckler and the duo will probably enter in either the fifth or sixth inning. The knuckleball can be such a challenge to catch that La Russa wanted Dickey to be able to work in the bullpen with Ruiz before pitching.
Ruiz has never caught a knuckleball in the majors. Minnesota catcher Joe Mauer previously caught Dickey and had some warnings for Ruiz.
"I know when R.A. came over, he gave me some pointers," Mauer said. "I'm sure he's talking with Ruiz. It could be a little nerve-wracking, especially when guys get on base."
For what it's worth, Ruiz is 5 for 16 lifetime against Dickey. But catching him could prove more difficult.
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@515....Al Simmons was "bucket foot" not Cochrane......— Mark1npt- MattPSU is probably referring to Bob Wickman, who Lieby caught in the 2000 AS game. However, he threw a lot of sinkers in the dirt, like Lidge but not as hard. He also caught Trevor Hoffman in that game, who had a nasty change up. The best ever.— EL Zorro
Mabye they will do Ruiz a favor and trade him to the Mets so he can go play for a team that has a chance to play a winning season again before 2020.
