Rumors: Carlos Ruiz to be top priority for Rockies

Catcher Carlos Ruiz has been rumored to be the Colorado Rockies "top priority", according to reports. Ruiz, 35 in 2014, had been suspended for PED usage in 2013. The Phillies also had rumored to make him their top priority. He could be getting a moderately large contract, due to the fact that the Phillies and Rockies could be in a bidding war over him.

The Rockies, however, could be limited on how much they would want to spend on Ruiz. They have Wilin Rosario, a young powerful catcher, who has plenty of potential. They could sign Ruiz to become catcher and a mentor for Rosario, but probably won't lock him up to an extended deal. Rosario could be utilized at first or in the outfield, but the Rockies probably won't want Ruiz to road block Rosario's way to become catcher. Nonetheless, Ruiz is still a proven catcher and could really help the Rockies lineup; he could even help their pitching staff.

Ruiz, who boasts a career .274/.358/.412 line, has played well not only offensively, but defensively. He has a career .995 fielding percentage in 790 games at catcher. He has built a good reputation as a good catcher, and is one of the best on the 2013 market. He could really help the Rockies in 2014 as they try and make some noise in the National League West division.