Game 68: Carlos Ruiz returns

TORONTO — There was no need for Carlos Ruiz to talk his way into the lineup, Charlie Manuel said.

"He said he's ready to play," Manuel said. And that was enough.

So two days after Ruiz suffered a strained left ribcage muscle — an injury that traditionally requires at least 15 days on the disabled list — he is catching for the Phillies.

Manuel said the team is not rushing him back, despite front office officials saying Ruiz will be further examined Monday in Philadelphia. The manager said head athletic trainer Scott Sheridan reported Ruiz was "definitely doing better." With the need to win, the decision was easy.

The full lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins 6
2. Placido Polanco 5
3. Hunter Pence 9
4. Jim Thome 0
5. Shane Victorino 8
6. Carlos Ruiz 2
7. Hector Luna 3
8. John Mayberry Jr. 7
9. Michael Martinez 4

Happy Father's Day to every dad out there.

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