Phillies and Carlos Ruiz: Top 51 Moments for Chooch
![Jun 29, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_752,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/ThatBallsOuttaHere-cover-1388ad07d179ad75733a146f017b8c4e.jpg)
![Phillies. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F9997069-mlb-seattle-mariners-at-houston-astros-8ef6e59dd75a5c7972ebca1a1ac20e6f.jpg)
Carlos Ruiz, the man Harry Kalas adoringly called “Chooch” is returning to Philadelphia as a Mariner. We highlight Chooch’s top 51 moments as a member of the Phillies.
Lost in Phillies greatness between Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Howard, and Cole Hamels is the 5-10 catcher from Panama.
As Carlos Ruiz returns to Philadelphia this week to a deafening echo of Chooches, we look back to his greatest moments as a beloved member of the Philadelphia Phillies.
51. Goodbye
When Chase Utley, Cole Hamels, and Jimmy Rollins left Philadelphia, they all bought newspaper ads thanking Phillies fans. Instead of following the trend, Ruiz decided to go bigger. After being traded to the Dodgers, Ruiz bought a sign on I-95 thanking fans. The sign read, “I loved playing for you. You will always be in my heart. Thank you, Philly! – Chooch”
50. Knuckleball Glove
In his seventh season in the major leagues, Ruiz was elected to his first All-Star Game. His battery partner for the game was the then-Mets knuckleballer, R.A. Dickey. As you probably know, the knuckleball is extremely difficult for catchers. To aid that, Dickey brought his special, enlarged catcher’s glove for Ruiz to use for the game.
Remember when Ruiz nearly caught for R.A. Dickey in the All-Star game, and needed this glove? pic.twitter.com/5qGF09es3K
— PHILLIES TBOH (@FS_TBOH) May 7, 2017
49. Ruiz scored on Michael Young walk-off
Back in the dog days of 2013, the Phillies were on their way to a 73-89 record and a fourth-place finish in the NL East. One of those wins came in walk-off fashion August 21. Ruiz tied the game up in the bottom of the ninth with a RBI double, and he came around to score on Michael Young’s single to win the game 4-3 over the Rockies.
48. Carlos Ruiz signs extension
A year after his 2012 All-Star season, Ruiz signed the first big contract of his career after the 2013 season. Ruiz and the Phillies agreed to a three-year $26 million deal with a club option for the fourth year, 2017. This is the deal Ruiz is still on through this season as the Mariners picked up his option for the year.
![Jun 13, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) throws to first base to retire Pittsburgh Pirates pinch hitter Jose Tabata (not pictured) during the sixth inning at PNC Park. The Pirates won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8609404-mlb-philadelphia-phillies-at-pittsburgh-pirates-3dc55eaee8085c9f7ffc6653ad9ba1ef.jpg)
47. Defensive Player of the Year
Just before signing his three-year deal, Ruiz was named the Phillies defensive player of the year. He made just three errors the entire season, good for a .996 fielding percentage. It was up in the air at the time whether or not Ruiz would even return to the team at the time, with then-GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. leaving it uncertain. However, the two sides came together and signed the deal, and the team presented Ruiz with the award the next April.
46. Two-run double in the bottom of the ninth, July 2, 2007
In just his second season in the majors in 2007, Ruiz was the team’s starting catcher. With the Phillies down 7-3 to the Astros, Ruiz stepped in with the bases loaded and one out. Ruiz cranked a two-run double into center field with the slow-footed Wes Helms ahead of him on the base paths. It was one of his biggest plays of the season in terms of win probability. However, the Phils couldn’t finish off the rally as Ruiz and Helms were left on second and third.
45. Tie-breaking double in the top of the ninth vs LA
The Phillies and Dodgers entered the ninth inning of their game early on in the 2014 season still tied at 3-3. The Phils were able to get runners on first and second with one out against Brian Wilson. Ruiz came to bat and knocked a line drive down the left-field line, scoring both runners and giving Philadelphia a 5-3 lead. Marlon Byrd hit a two-run single a few batters later to ice the game, giving the Phillies an 11-11 record at that point for the season.
44. Game-tying double in the bottom of the ninth vs Colorado
Prior to scoring on a walk-off single to win the game, Ruiz laced a RBI double that tied the score between the Phillies and the Rockies. It increased Philadelphia’s odds to win by 29%, topped in the game only by Michael Young’s walk-off single. It was his third-biggest play of the season in terms of WPA.
![Aug 24, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) talks with Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Domonic Brown (9) on the dugout step during the second inning against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park. The Mets won 16-7. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8765019-mlb-new-york-mets-at-philadelphia-phillies-163ec1a6274ecacb5ffed59dfcca3ab4.jpg)
43. Seven RBI Game
May 2, 2012, saw an utter slugfest between the Phillies and the Braves with a final score of 15-13. Ruiz notched seven RBI in the game with a home run and two doubles. It was Ruiz’s career high for RBI in a single game. However, the Phils lost on a walk-off home run from Chipper Jones, the eternal thorn in the side of Philadelphia.
42. Game-Tying Bases-Loaded Double
The Phillies went into the bottom of the eighth of their game with the Brewers on July 24, 2012 down 6-1 and in desperate need of a rally. They were able to get the game within three runs with the bases loaded with Ruiz stepped to the plate. He proceeded to clear the bases with a double, tying the game. He then scored on a Hunter Pence single, capping off a six-run rally for the Phils, capping off an 85% shift in win expectancy.
41. Walk-Off Double against Jonathan Broxton
Jonathan Broxton had plenty of struggles with Philadelphia’s lineup, and May 14, 2012 was no exception. He entered with a two-run lead and got two quick outs before allowing two runners to get on base for Ruiz. Ruiz made Broxton pay for it by hitting a two-run double to tie the game. However, the Phillies couldn’t win the game as the Dodgers scored two runs in the top of the tenth.
40. Chooch takes first on a 2-2 pitch
Ruiz had some odd moments during his time in Philadelphia as well. During a game on April 12, 2014, Ruiz thought he had a full count and after taking ball four, he tossed his bat and made his way down to first. However, the umpire called him back as he had the count at 2-2. Ruiz came back, albeit confused, but it didn’t matter as he took ball four again on the next pitch.
![Jun 29, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F9367809-mlb-philadelphia-phillies-at-arizona-diamondbacks-34f4d9e72c3e840e6f4a2c6e01dbd233.jpg)
39: 1000th career game
Ruiz spent 11 years in the majors with the Phillies and he finally reached 1000 games played in 2015. When it was announced that Ruiz was playing his 1000th game, the Philly faithful at Citizens Bank Park proceeded to give him an ovation. Ruiz went 1-for-4 with two RBI in the game.
38. Four hits against the Mets
Ruiz’s career numbers against the Mets are about on par with his overall line, but one game in 2014 Ruiz was a real nuisance. He went 4-for-4 with a double and a RBI July 28. It was one of just ten games where Ruiz had four hits and just one of three where he went 4-for-4. However, the Phils pitching staff couldn’t handle the Mets as they lost 7-1.
37. Run-down with Yasiel Puig
Yasiel Puig was one of the best players in baseball in 2015, finishing with 5.4 fWAR that season. However, he was no match for the baseball IQ of Chase Utley and Carlos Ruiz. Utley fielded a ground ball up the middle that Puig tried to score on, but Utley threw it home to Ruiz and he tagged out Puig heading back to third. It was a heads-up play on Ruiz and Utley’s part that preserved a 7-0 shutout.
36. Overrunning a pop-up
In one of his final games as a Phillie, Ruiz had another interesting moment when he nearly overran a foul pop-up. He ventured over to the third-base dugout before realizing he had to take a few steps back. However, with the ball coming down quickly, he had to make a dive back towards fair territory to make the acrobatic grab.
![May 3, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; General overall view of Dodger Stadium during a MLB game between the San Francisco Giants and hte Los Angeles Dodgers. The Giants defeated the Dodgers 4-1 in 11 innings. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F10044412-mlb-san-francisco-giants-at-los-angeles-dodgers-ec34c0e1d064adef6502f7731b1defa9.jpg)
35. Scoring on Matt Stairs’ blast
During Philadelphia’s World Series run in 2008, Ruiz batted in the eight-hole just before the pitcher’s spot. Ruiz was able to get a two-out single in the bottom of the eighth inning of Game Four of the NLCS, bringing the pitcher’s spot up to the plate. Matt Stairs pinch-hit for Ryan Madson and launched a home run deep into the night, scoring Ruiz and himself. It was one of the top moments of the season, and if Ruiz didn’t get that single, it never would have happened.
34. Chooch as a pillow
To advertise their million-dollar promotion for the first person to throw a perfect game in MLB 2K11, 2K Sports brought in Roy Halladay, who threw a perfect game the year prior. Halladay paid homage to his batterymate Ruiz who helped him get that perfect game.
Halladay must have really trusted Chooch, too, because he had a pillow with Ruiz’s likeness on it to run all his decisions by.
33. Game-winning hit against the Yankees
The Phillies and Yankees met in May of the 2009 in what Jimmy Rollins correctly predicted as the preview for that year’s World Series. Ruiz was a huge part in Philadelphia’s second win of the series as he caught two runners stealing. He also gave the Phillies the game-winning run in the top of the 11th inning with a RBI double.
32. Steps on the bat, gets the out
Ruiz was able to overcome plenty of obstacles throughout his career, sometimes literal obstacles. Cameron Maybin dribbled a single in front of the plate with two on. Ruiz charged the ball and threw it to first. However, as he was making the throw he stepped on Maybin’s bat and slipped, but he was still able to record the out.
Lights-out closer Ken Giles struck out the next two batters to finish off the game for the Phillies.
![Jul 30, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) steps on home plate to get force out during the third inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8724996-mlb-atlanta-braves-at-philadelphia-phillies-440d61c1e3ea5f6aebc8d7c8187631f6.jpg)
31. Backwards bunt turned into a double-play
Another odd play Ruiz was part of was a double play started by a backwards bunt. It bounced on the plate and back into Ruiz’s hand, who fired it down to second to Freddy Galvis to start a 2-6-4 double play. The play was very close as the Marlins debated with home plate umpire Angel Hernandez about where Ruiz fielded the ball, saying he did so in foul territory. Unfortunately for them, their dispute couldn’t do much as the play was not eligible for review, giving the Phillies a double play.
30. Every “strike ’em out throw ’em out” double play
Chooch turned 62 double-plays as a Phillie, many of which were the classic “strike ‘em out, throw ‘em out” plays. Few catchers in baseball have an arm as strong as Ruiz, who could frame a pitch and immediately fire a laser to third base. A double play is a pitchers best friend, but when the catcher turns one to escape a jam it feels even better.
29. Papelbon save record
Everyone has their own opinions on Jonathan Papelbon, who in his prime was the best closer in baseball. He’s the Phillies all-time leader in saves, and Ruiz is a major piece of that record. Only Jason Varitek caught more innings from Papelbon. However, the record clinching save turned by Papelbon is largely known as a great throw by Jeff Francoeur to get the double play from right field.
Ruiz’s tag at the plate is just as great as the throw, and it seals a piece of Phillies history.
28. First career home run
After six years in the Phillies minor league system log-jammed by Mike Lieberthal, Carlos Ruiz made his major league debut May 6, 2006 against the Giants. Chooch went hitless in his debut but ultimately made up for it with some fireworks on the Fourth of July against the Padres. That’s where Ruiz hit the first of many home runs in a 6-5 win over San Diego.
![May 15, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Luis Garcia (57) and catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) celebrate a victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Citizens Bank Park. The Phillies won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8568681-mlb-arizona-diamondbacks-at-philadelphia-phillies-72401a037b3a11dbd2d5f3c1fa8be29a.jpg)
27. 10th inning home run in Florida
After J.C. Romero blew a quality start from Roy Oswalt the Phillies went to extra inning against the Florida Marlins on the road. After a horrendous fair-foul call by Bob Davidson at third base, Ruiz crushed a 3-2 pitch off Will Ohman into left field to lead the Phillies to their 60th win of the year.
26. Chooch plays the hot corner
An insane 13 inning marathon won by Rudy Seanez against the Mets saw Chooch play the hot corner. Pedro Feliz was taken out on a double-switch in the sixth and Greg Dobbs was pinch-hit for by Chris Coste in the ninth. The result was Chooch moving to third base for one inning so Eric Bruntlett’s bat could be saved on the bench for one inning. Coste ultimately ended the game with a walk-off hit against Scott Schoeneweis.
25. Chooch plays third in 19 inning marathon
If you thought 13 innings was bad, try 19 against the Reds. It’s most commonly known as the “Wilson Valdez” game where the utility infielder got the win after pitching a near perfect 19th inning.
Chooch took over at third after a myriad of moves: Wilson Valdez moves from 2B to P, Dane Sardinha moves from PH to C, Placido Polanco moves from 3B to 2B, Carlos Ruiz moves from C to 3B.
24. Walk-off home run against the Cardinals
Ruiz saved his first home run of the 2010 campaign for a walk-off slam against St. Louis. Little did we know the Cardinals would torture us in the playoffs, but the feeling of Chooch knocking a bomb into the flowers is irreplaceable.
![Jun 4, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Anthony DeSclafani (28) scores at home on an obstruction error by Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) during the fifth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8596402-mlb-cincinnati-reds-at-philadelphia-phillies-c64fb6a868d627a9a527e34498ba5e28.jpg)
23. Ran over by Dietrich
One of Ruiz’ most recent highlights came against the Marlins just over a year ago to the day. Catching Jeremy Hellickson, Ruiz held onto a throw from Peter Bourjos after being bulldozed by Derek Dietrich at home. Phillies would take the game 4-3 after scoring three runs in the eighth inning.
22. Falling down the steps catch
Carlos has always been known for his glove and defense behind the plate. But his defense in the dugout, well that’s another story. The first out of the game against Tampa Bay on July 22, 2015 came on a pop-up that drifted away from Chooch. With his leg slipping out down the steps, Ruiz made the first out from his dugout steps.
21. Big game against the Nationals
In the Phillie’s heyday, one win could mean the division, so any chance you could beat the Mets or Nationals was taken. On May 15, 2009, Ruiz went 3-6 against the Nats in a victory that included 10 runs scored over 12 innings. After Brad Lidge blew a save, the Phillies mounted a comeback that included four runs in the 12th inning. Ruiz finished the game with two RBIs and a run scored, reaching base four times.
20. Rocking the Rockies
Another big performance by Ruiz came nearly one year after his mashing of the Nats. This time, he went 4-5 with a home run against Colorado and helped score four runs in the top of the ninth inning. First was an RBI single to drive in Ryan Howard, followed by scoring on Ross Gload pinch-hit home run.
![Jun 4, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) throws out Cincinnati Reds center fielder Billy Hamilton (not pictured) on a sacrifice bunt during the fifth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8596400-mlb-cincinnati-reds-at-philadelphia-phillies-6cb5741534c0ef420442f44df5ea5bc8.jpg)
19. Dominating the Diamondbacks
Making his second start as a Phillie, Pedro Martinez pitched three innings against Arizona before yielding the rest of the game to Jamie Moyer. Catching the two ageless wonders was none other than Chooch, who went 3-3 with a home run of Jon Garland. It propelled the Phillies towards their second-consecutive National League championship 6and was the first of several strong performances that year for Pedro Martinez.
18. Four hits in 20-2 win over St. Louis
In every sports fans life, there are games that stick out in their memory, and this is one of mine. Scoring nine runs in the fourth inning the Phillies destroyed each of the six pitchers used by the Cardinals during a game in St. Louis. Chooch went 4-6 with two doubles in the rout, driving in Pedro Feliz twice and Geoff Jekins later on.
17. Grand Slam against Atlanta
As Philadelphia attempted to get one more season out of their World Series core each game against NL East teams was critical. Carlos Ruiz didn’t start on April 9, 2011, but made a humongous impact on the game. Pinch-hitting for Roy Oswalt in a 3-2 game, Chooch ripped a grand slam in the seventh inning of a 3-2 game. He remained in the game only to notch an RBI double and score to win 10-2 on the road.
16. Two-run double against Broxton
Can Jonathan Broxton ever catch a break against the Phillies? With an ERA of 5.40 in 29 games, Broxton was the Phillies favorite punching bag. Chooch took full advantage of the futile reliever in their first series against LA since the Matt Stairs home run during the NLCS. Hitting a two-run double in the bottom of the ninth, Ruiz handed Broxton another blown save early in the 2009 season.
![Jul 16, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) scores past New York Mets relief pitcher Erik Goeddel (62) on a wild pitch during the eighth inning at Citizens Bank Park. The Philadelphia Phillies won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F9386989-mlb-new-york-mets-at-philadelphia-phillies-c820bc48ddcfacd3a819faf8339041eb.jpg)
15. Walk-off double against Los Angeles
Scoring eight runs in the final two innings against the Dodgers, Philadelphia walked off with a beautiful 10-9 victory against LA. Ruiz was 3-5 in the game, but his two-run walk-off double against (who else) Jonathan Broxton sealed the game.
14. Utley’s World Series magic
One of the greatest plays in Phillies history is the Chase Utley pump fake throw to home play in the World Series. Chooch made the play possible with a great tag at the plate that goes unnoticed thanks to the immortal Utley.
13. Go-ahead hit in 2009 NLDS
Ruiz had several key moments in the 20009 NLDS against Colorado, a team that swept Philadelphia in the 2007 playoffs. His biggest was a go-ahead hit in game three against future teammate Jose Contreras. In a 4-4 game in the top of the sixth, Ruiz drove in Raul Ibanez for the go-ahead run to give the Phils a 2-1 game advantage.
12. Scores on Brett Myers hit in NLCS
Somehow Brett Myers is connected to all of the Phillies playoff moments. Starting in game two of the 2008 NLCS Myers collected two key hits to secure a victory. First came a go-ahead single to drive in Chooch, followed by a two-run single in the third against Chad Billingsley. On the second hit Ruiz advanced to third and later scored on a Shane Victorino triple against future Phillie Chan Ho Park.
11. Scores from first on Moyer bunt
When you hear about a Phillie scoring from first on a bunt, Carlos is probably the last person you think of. Well against the Pirates in 2008, Moyer laid down a bunt to move Ruiz from first to second. Two errors later and Moyer was on third while Ruiz crossed the plate to tie the game at one.
Somehow Harry kept his cool on the call, and the rest is history.
![Jun 30, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) crosses home plate after hitting solo home run during the sixth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8675227-mlb-milwaukee-brewers-at-philadelphia-phillies-1578b468b05676b7e5deda06c220d066.jpg)
10. 2012 All-Star Game
Ruiz started off the 2012 season red-hot, finishing the first half with a .350/.412/.584 line. Ruiz had 13 home runs, 46 RBI, and 21 doubles. Fans rallied behind the backstop, launching the website vote4chooch.com to campaign for Ruiz.
One group of fans found enough support that Ruiz is an alien from Area 51 and that he has to be in the All-Star Game or he will call his mothership. Don’t believe me? Watch this!
Ruiz was eventually selected by NL manager Tony La Russa for the game. Ruiz, along with Cole Hamels and Jonathan Papelbon, was one of three Phillies in the game.
Ruiz caught three innings total after replacing Buster Posey. Ruiz caught knuckleballer R.A. Dickey, both of his Philly teammates, and flamethrower Aroldis Chapman among several others. Ruiz flew out in his lone plate appearance of the game. Altogether, it was nice to see one of the unsung heroes of the Phillies golden years be recognized.
9. 2010 NLCS home run
The 2010 NLCS with the San Francisco Giants is a sore spot in the mind of Phillies fans. After two straight World Series appearances and a strong regular season, fans were envisioning another chance for a title. However, that didn’t go as planned as the Phillies lost in six games to the Giants as San Francisco went on to win the World Series instead.
The series was nothing special for Ruiz either as he managed just three hits in those six games. However, one of those hits was a home run in the first game of the series off of Giants ace Tim Lincecum. His home run tied up the game after the Giants scored a run in the top of the third. In the end the home run wasn’t enough as the Phils lost the game 4-3.
![Aug 10, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) gets a hit against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the seventh inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F9444178-mlb-philadelphia-phillies-at-los-angeles-dodgers-8521ba83ed5bdf409ed9359747fa05fb.jpg)
8. NLCS Home Run off Kershaw
The 2009 NLCS featured a rematch of the year’s prior series with the Dodgers and Phillies meeting once again. Game One was a battle of young lefties with the 21-year old Clayton Kershaw facing the 25-year old Cole Hamels. Hamels gave up a run in the second inning to give the Dodgers an early lead.
That lead lasted until the fifth when Philadelphia scored five runs in the top of the inning. Ruiz started off the scoring with a three-run home run, his second career postseason home run. Ryan Howard tacked on a two-run double later in the inning and from there the Phils had the lead the rest of the game.
7. 2009 NLCS Walk-Off
One of the greatest, yet underrated calls in Phillies history is the Scott Franzke 2009 NLCS walk-off. Let’s first lay out how we got to that great call. Former Phillie Randy Wolf starts for Los Angeles, and serves up a two-run home run to his former teammate Ryan Howard.
After Joe Blanton allows his typical four runs through six innings, the Phillies get two shutout innings from Chan-Ho Park and Ryan Madson. Scott Eyre and Brad
Scott Eyre and Brad Lidge work together to finish off the Dodgers in the ninth-inning, giving the offense an opportunity down 4-3 against our best friend Jonathan Broxton. Raul Ibanez grounds out, Matt Stairs walks and is replaced by Eric
Raul Ibanez grounds out, Matt Stairs walks and is replaced by Eric Bruntlett, and Ruiz is hit by a pitch. Jimmy Rollins then steps to the plate hitting .237 and rips a 1-1 pitch into the right-center field alley. Bruntlett and Ruiz score, and the game four of the NLCS ends euphorically.
![Jul 11, 2015; San Francisco, CA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) greets first baseman Ryan Howard (6) after his solo home run in the sixth inning against the San Francisco Giants at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Lance Iversen-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8691551-mlb-philadelphia-phillies-at-san-francisco-giants-b33082c4ce5c0640d289589dd36c0420.jpg)
6. World Series Walk-Off
Early in his career Carlos Ruiz wasn’t typically known to be a clutch hitter for the Phillies. We’ve highlighted his moments, and each have come at critical parts in the game. However, this clutch hit changes the entire World Series, and sends the Phils into game five ahead in the series.
First to set the scene: game three of the 2008 World Series where Jamie Moyer, who watched the 1980 Phillies parade as a kid, gets the start. The 45-year-old pitches into the seventh inning, yielding the ball to Chad Durbin in a 4-2 game. Durbin allows a run to score (charged to Moyer) and Scott Eyre cleans up the inning by striking out Akinori Iwamura. Evan Longoria attempts to steal third, but a throwing error by Ruiz allows the third baseman to score. Chooch would make up for the error in the bottom of the ninth.
After Eric Bruntlett is hit by a pitch, Shane Victorino and Greg Dobbs are intentionally walked, Ruiz steps to the plate with the bases loaded in the biggest at bat of his career.
A Panamanian catcher who signed as an amateur free agent now hitting in the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded in game three of the World Series.
Chooch manages to catch the ball with the end of his bat, dribbling the ball up the third base line. Longoria charges in and throws towards Bruntlett at home.
Game three, won.
![Jul 5, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Jonathan Papelbon (58) and catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) react after defeating the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. The Phillies defeated the Braves 4-0 in ten innings. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8682002-mlb-philadelphia-phillies-at-atlanta-braves-c11dc3144616d9c8526b863633d1dc89.jpg)
5. Combined No-No
The Phillies earned their first no-hitter in four years on Labor Day 2014 when four pitchers combined to no-hit the Braves in a 7-0. It is by no means the most glamorous way to get a no-hitter, but when your team struggles for most of the season, you will definitely take it. It was the first time the Phils had a combined no-hitter.
Orchestrating the entire thing behind the plate was the veteran signal-caller Ruiz. He had been there before, being behind the plate for both of Roy Halladay’s no-hitters back in 2010.
Ruiz guided Cole Hamels through control issues early in the game as Hamels finished his six innings with five walks and a hit-by-pitch. Hamels allowed two runners to reach base in the first before getting three straight outs to quiet the early rally. They escaped another jam in the third with runners on second and third thanks to a diving catch by Marlon Byrd.
The last three innings of the game were much smoother as Jake Diekman and Ken Giles struck out a combined five batters in the seventh and the eighth before Jonathan Papelbon finished off the no-hitter in the ninth with a clean inning of his own.
Ruiz caught several no-hitters in his career, and while the combined one was not the prettiest, it still counts in the record books.
![Jul 25, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cole Hamels (35) is doused with water after throwing a no hitter against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. The Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Chicago Cubs 5-0. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8716928-mlb-philadelphia-phillies-at-chicago-cubs-0fd88e67dcf95241188bd252c5b9bf4b.jpg)
4. Cole Hamels’ Final Start
With the Phillies crashing and burning their way towards last place in 2015, rumors about trading Cole Hamels spread like wildfire. The lefty was having a solid season overall, but was coming off two straight starts where he left by the fourth inning and gave up an absurd amount of runs.
Hamels’ fortunes completely reversed when the Phils headed to Chicago to face the Cubs. He compiled 13 strikeouts and walked just two batters on his way to his second no-hitter – the first being the combined one the year prior – in his last start as a Phillie. That no-hitter is probably a large reason why the Phillies got so much in return for Hamels.
As with Philly’s three previous no-hitters, Ruiz was there to meet Hamels at the mound. The two had worked together since 2006, and Hamels raved about Ruiz after the game.
“We get into habits where we don’t even need to call signs,” Hamels said. “I think that’s something special. I think anybody who’s been able to have a combination like that kind of has that understanding. “When you’re able to get that, it’s special. That’s tough to develop. He’s a tremendous catcher and it just shows. If he wasn’t, he wouldn’t be catching that many no-hitters or perfect games.”
Ruiz helped Hamels focus on his better pitches during the game, and his assistance was a huge part in why Hamels was able to get his own no-hitter.
![Dec 9, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Roy Halladay announces his retirement at the MLB Winter Meetings at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Halladay signed a one-day contract and retired with the Toronto Blue Jays. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F7608016-mlb-winter-meetings-05ef0fe189dc47e4b4a0c7635a493215.jpg)
3. Doc’s No-No
Twelve seasons in Toronto gave Roy Halladay zero playoff appearances, so getting game one of the NLDS meant a lot for Doc. Having already thrown a perfect game in his first year in Philadelphia, Halladay was on his way to another Cy Young award.
Starting the series at home against Cincinnati, Halladay put down the first three Reds with 10 pitches. He cruised through two innings, and helped himself with an RBI single in the bottom of the second. Four frames later he walked his only baserunner of the game, Jay Bruce, on a 3-2 pitch.
Despite losing the perfect game Doc, with the help of his best friend Chooch, mowed down eight hitters. On that chilly night in South Philly, Halladay became only the second pitcher to throw a post-season no-hitter.
Doc’s line in that game finished as follows: nine innings, no hits, one walk, eight strikeouts. Three of those punchouts came courtesy of Scott Rolen, who made the All-Star game at 35-years-old.
Ruiz supplemented Halladay’s no-hitter not just behind the plate, but in the right-handed batters box. Chooch walked twice and scored a run on Halladay’s second-inning single.
Philadelphia went on to sweep the Reds, but unfortunately fell to San Francisco in the National League championship.
![Dec 9, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Roy Halladay announces his retirement the MLB Winter Meetings at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Halladay signed a one-day contract and retired with the Toronto Blue Jays. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F7608020-mlb-winter-meetings-1-2bd3b4e8042d64a3abecfe7edfdd3b71.jpg)
2. Doc’s Perfect Game
Memorial Day Weekend, 2010, I sat in Ocean City, New Jersey for what I believed to be another Phillies baseball game. After a five-game losing streak between the Red Sox and Mets the Phillies were on the road in Florida. After taking game one of the series 3-2 behind Kyle Kendrick Doc took the mound.
He’s coming off his worst start of the season, giving up six earned runs to Boston at home. With his trusted catcher behind the plate, Halladay gets Chris Coghlan and Gabby Sanchez to strikeout for the first two outs, both on 3-2 counts.
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All the sudden, Doc is mowing down Marlins hitters left and right. Several highlight reel plays are made behind him, but his teammates aren’t helping at the plate. Chase Utley knocked in an unearned run after an error in center field helped Wilson Valdez score in the third inning.
Despite the lack of run production, Halladay is pitching on another level. Six times the Doc gets hitters on a 3-2 count but never lets up.
Going to the bottom of the ninth in Florida everyone knows what’s at stake. First out comes on a deep fly ball to straight away center field. Had this game been in Philadelphia the ball would be gone, but Shane Victorino makes the catch on the warning track.
Next batter, former Phillie Wes Helms, strikes out looking.
The final out comes on a ground ball to Juan Castro, playing third base for the injured Placido Polanco. Castro spins, fires, and gets Ronny Paulino out at first base to complete the perfect game.
Halladay immediately credits Ruiz for the perfect game, saying “I can’t say enough about the job that Ruiz did tonight, really. I felt like he was calling a great game up until the fourth or fifth, and at that point, I just felt like I’d let him take over and go with him. He did a great job. Like I said, it was kind of a no-brainer for me. I’d just go out, see the glove and hit it.”
And just like that, a love story was formed.
![Jun 4, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (51) breaks his bat as he hits a single against the Cincinnati Reds during the eighth inning at Citizens Bank Park. The Reds won 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/w_480/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthatballsouttahere-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fusat-images-2F2016-2F04-2F8596589-mlb-cincinnati-reds-at-philadelphia-phillies-61ec36da6d692b12cd3cc6c30e67926b.jpg)
1. World Champions of Baseball
What else could possibly be the number one moment in Carlos Ruiz’ 11 seasons wearing Phillies pinstripes? Helping lead Brad Lidge to a perfect season as the Phillies closer, Ruiz blocked every slider thrown his way from the veteran righty.
After rain forced game five of the World Series to be suspended midway through the contest, fans returned to Citizens Bank Park in droves.
In the first at-bat after the nearly two-day rain delay, Geoff Jenkins leads off the bottom of the fifth inning with a double to the right field wall. Jenkins scores on a Jayson Werth single, and the Phils took the lead. After Pat Burrell nearly capped off his Phillies career with a home run in his final at-bat with the team, Pedro Feliz drove in Eric Bruntlett to make it a 4-3 game.
After Ryan Madson, aka the Bridge to Lidge, and J.C. Romero mow through Rays hitters, Lights Out Lidge took to the big stage.
The rest, as they say, is history.
You can look at the great catchers in Phillies history and pull a few out of the red cap. Mike Lieberthal, Darren Daulton, Bob Boone are all deserving of that title.
Each are on the Wall of Fame, while Lieberthal holds the franchise records for hits and home runs. But the most important stat in baseball is ultimately wins. Carlos Ruiz gave us more than our fair share of wins, 551 to be exact. Those are how many games the Phillies won when Carlos Ruiz made an appearance.
Next: Carlos Ruiz Place in Phillies History
So while he may have been a Dodger, and is now a Mariner, Carlos Ruiz will always be our quiet, little Panamanian catcher who won us a World Series.