So the Astros have signed yet another corner outfielder to compete for the OF depth position at OKC. Who is this Ruggiano stranger?
The short answer is he's an older more powerful Bogusevic with less plate discipline. But don't just take my word for it, let's look at some minor league stats.
2008
Bogusevic hit .347/.432/.537 with a 11.6% walk rate and 14.5% strikeout rate. Oh yeah, and 9 steals.
Ruggiano hit .315/.374/.537 with a 7.6% walk rate and 26.6% strikeout rate. Justin had 20 steals.
2009
Bogusevic hit .274/.342/.365 with a 9.1% walk rate and 20.3% strikeout rate. And 22 steals.
Ruggiano hit .253/.330/.412 with a 9.6% walk rate and 27.6% strikeout rate. Justin had 23 steals.
2010
Bogusevic hit .277/.364/.414 with a 11.7% walk rate and 18.8% strikeout rate. Brian had 23 steals.
Ruggiano hit .287/.357/.453 with a 8.3% walk rate and 25.4% strikeout rate. Justin had 24 steals.
2011
Bogusevic hit .261/.362/.399 with a 11.8% walk rate and 19.3% strikeout rate. 20 steals.
Ruggiano hit .304/.378/.518 with a 10.5% walk rate and 22.1% strikeout rate. 12 steals.
Of course, there were some differences in level and playing time, but you get the point.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
