Carlos Ruiz suspended

Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz has been suspended 25 games next season by Major League Baseball. Ruiz tested positive for a banned amphetamine, and his suspension will be served at the start of the 2013 season.

The Phillies will likely look to sign another catcher, most likely a veteran, in free agency for next season. Not only to replace Ruiz for the first 25 games, but also to serve as a solid backup for Philadelphia throughout next season.

When competing with the young, and very good Washington Nationals the Phillies need to catch a few breaks to win the division. This is not going to help one bit.