A's batting average leader sent down because he 'needs to get on base,' GM says

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The Oakland Athletics are off to a slow start in 2024 with a 1-4 record through five games. 

Considering their young roster, it’s the start many expected.

One player did well to start the new season, but he’s not being rewarded for it. 

Instead, he’s been demoted. 

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Esteury Ruiz of the Oakland Athletics rounds third base to score against the Cleveland Guardians in the bottom of the first inning March 31, 2024, at the Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Esteury Ruiz, one of the top young players in the organization, went 3-for-7 with a triple and one RBI during the A’s opening series against the Cleveland Guardians. The outfielder’s .429 average was the best on the team — until he wasn’t on the team anymore. 

Oakland sent him down to Triple-A, and general manager David Frost explained the decision. 

"We talked about Esty a couple of times during the spring," Frost said, via MLB.com. "Where he fits in the lineup, on this team and the importance of him playing every day. Seeing through the first four games, that wasn’t going to happen here.

A'S UNVEIL RENDERING OF PLANNED LAS VEGAS STADIUM

"Cutting down on strikeouts and getting on base are things that we talked to him about all last season. He did make some good adjustments this spring. We saw an improvement in his exit velocity and some better at-bats. But the reality is, to use his skills, he needs to get on base.

"He needs to be able to do that on a consistent basis. I’m hoping with him leading off every day in Triple-A it’s not a long stay for him down there."

While roster moves are normal for