Aiden Ruiz
Position: SS
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 160 lbs
Bats/Throws: B/R
Born: 03/28/2007
High School: The Stony Brook (NY)
How Acquired: Drafted 2nd Round, 44th Overall, 2026
Bonus: $3,500,000
40-man Roster: No
Rule 5 Eligible: 2029
Minor League Free Agency: 2032
Options Left: 3
Overview
Ruiz was considered the best defensive shortstop in the 2026 high school class. He plays with great instincts, and has very good actions and a quick release. At the plate, he makes a lot of contact but isn’t likely to hit for any power. His bat speed is below average and it’s possible he won’t hit well enough to make it to the majors as a regular. His speed is average. Ruiz was ranked 31st among draft prospects by Baseball America and 37th by FanGraphs. He was already 19 at the time of the draft, making him half a year older than Gustavo Melendez, whom the Pirates drafted a year ago. Ruiz was committed to Vanderbilt, but signed for far over the slot value of $2,278,700.
Stats
Fangraphs
Transactions
July 11, 2026: Drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in round 2, 44th overall pick; signed July 23.