Bruce Ruffin, a left-handed pitcher, spent over a decade in Major League Baseball, showcasing his skills with three different teams. Born on October 4, 1963, in Denver, Colorado, Ruffin attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he played college baseball for the Texas Longhorns. His performance in college caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection by the Philadelphia Phillies in the second round of the 1985 MLB Draft.
Ruffin made his MLB debut with the Phillies on June 28, 1986. In his rookie season, he quickly established himself as a reliable starter, finishing with a 9-4 record and a 2.46 ERA in 21 games. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the Topps All-Star Rookie Team. Over the next few years, Ruffin remained a steady presence in the Phillies' rotation, although his ERA fluctuated as he adjusted to the demands of the major leagues.
In 1991, Ruffin was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, where he transitioned from a starting pitcher to a relief role. This change allowed him to adapt his pitching style, focusing more on control and finesse rather than power. After a brief stint with the Brewers, Ruffin signed with the Colorado Rockies in 1993, joining the team during their inaugural season. As a member of the Rockies, he became an integral part of their bullpen, serving as a setup man and occasionally closing games.
Ruffin's tenure with the Rockies was marked by his adaptability and consistency. In 1996, he recorded a career-high 24 saves, demonstrating his ability to handle high-pressure situations. His performance that season was instrumental in helping the Rockies remain competitive in the National League West.
Throughout his career, Ruffin was known for his effective use of a sinker and slider, which kept hitters off balance. His ability to induce ground balls was particularly valuable in the hitter-friendly environments of the ballparks he played in, especially Coors Field in Colorado.
After the 1997 season, Ruffin retired from professional baseball.
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