Darin Ruf Demands Reds for Career-Ending Injury
Former Major League outfielder and first baseman Darin Ruf has filed a lawsuit against the Cincinnati Reds, seeking compensation for damages following a career-ending injury. The incident occurred two years ago at Great American Ballpark.
The lawsuit, filed Thursday in the Hamilton County, Ohio, Court of Common Pleas, accuses the Reds of negligence for failing to maintain safe conditions on the field. Specifically, the presence of an unprotected metal tarp roller is cited.
This didn’t have to happen. I wish it hadn’t happened. Players shouldn’t have to worry about hidden dangers like that on a Major League field.
Darin Ruf
Ruf’s injury occurred while playing first base for Milwaukee during the Brewers’ victory over the Reds on June 2, 2023. In the third inning, Ruf was chasing a foul ball when his knee impacted the end of the canvas roller.
According to the complaint, Ruf suffered “permanent and substantial deformities in his knee.” This led him to the injured list for 60 days and he was never able to play in the Major Leagues again.
Ruf’s complaint indicates that the end of the canvas roller was made of sharp metal and had no cushioning or protection.
This was an obvious and avoidable risk. There are basic safety protocols that every MLB team should follow. Leaving an unprotected metal roller at the edge of the field is inexcusable.
Tad Thomas, Ruf’s lawyer
The Reds have not issued an immediate response to requests for comment.
Ruf seeks punitive and compensatory damages. The lawsuit argues that the Reds failed to take the necessary precautions to ensure stadium safety and are also liable for the negligent acts of the field crew.
Ruf, 38, played in the majors from 2012 to 2023 with the Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants, New York Mets, and Brewers. In his career, he batted .239 with an on-base percentage of .329, 67 home runs, and 205 RBIs in 582 games.
