Dick Ruthven's journey in Major League Baseball began when he was selected as the first overall pick in the secondary phase of the 1973 MLB Draft by the Philadelphia Phillies. A right-handed pitcher, Ruthven quickly made his way to the majors, debuting with the Phillies in the same year. His early years with the team showcased his potential as a starting pitcher, and he became a regular part of their rotation.

Ruthven's tenure with the Phillies was marked by steady development, but in 1975, he was traded to the Chicago White Sox. His time with the White Sox was brief, as he was soon traded again, this time to the Atlanta Braves. It was with the Braves that Ruthven began to find more consistency in his performance. He spent several seasons in Atlanta, where he honed his skills and became a reliable starter.

In 1978, Ruthven returned to the Philadelphia Phillies in a trade that proved beneficial for both him and the team. His second stint with the Phillies was marked by some of the best performances of his career. In 1980, Ruthven played a crucial role in helping the Phillies secure their first World Series title. During that season, he posted a 17-10 record with a 3.55 ERA, solidifying his place as a key member of the pitching staff.

Ruthven's performance in the 1980 postseason was instrumental in the Phillies' success. He pitched effectively in the National League Championship Series and the World Series, providing the team with valuable innings and stability on the mound. His efforts were a vital part of the Phillies' championship run, and he earned a World Series ring for his contributions.

Following the championship season, Ruthven continued to pitch for the Phillies, maintaining his role as a dependable starter. In 1983, he was selected to the National League All-Star team, a testament to his skill and consistency on the mound. That year, the Phillies returned to the World Series, but they were unable to capture another title.

Ruthven's career with the Phillies came to an end in 1984 when he was traded to the Chicago Cubs. He spent the final years of his career with the Cubs, providing veteran leadership and experience to the pitching staff. Ruthven retired from professional baseball after the 1986 season, concluding a career that spanned over a decade in the major leagues.

Throughout his career, Dick Ruthven was known for his durability and ability to deliver solid performances as a starting pitcher.

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