- October 17, 2024
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Courtesy photo by David Jester
Windermere High baseball player Randy “RJ” Ruiz Jr. is a rising junior and was a star for the Wolverines 2024 team that finished with a 28-4 record and as the FHSAA Class 7A state runners-up.
In his second season as a starter at Windermere for coach Eric Lassiter — who also coaches him at the club level, as part of the Power Baseball program’s Blue Jays scout team — Ruiz Jr. led the Wolverines in RBIs with 35 and home runs with three, while hitting for an average of .396 (38/96) and scoring 28 runs.
Ruiz Jr., son of former MLB player Randy Ruiz, has shown massive potential and production in the batter’s box and the outfield over his short high school career, resulting in being named an All-American by MaxPreps for the 2026 class, a Perfect Game Underclassmen All-American and was named to All-Metro West conference team.
Age: 17
Sport: Baseball
Grade: Rising junior
School: Windermere High
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It’s an incredible honor, and I am extremely grateful for the recognition.
What do you enjoy most about baseball?
It’s hard to put into words, but it’s that feeling I get when I take the field and the crowd’s cheering, the feeling I get when I stand at the plate. I guess you could say it’s the overall love I have for the game and everything about it.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing sports?
The game of baseball has definitely taught me how to handle both success and failure. There are going to be ups and downs, but you have to stay true to yourself and keep fighting through the struggles. … Don’t ever give up on yourself or your dream.
Who is your favorite athlete?
My dad, Randy Ruiz. He did not have an easy road to making it to the big leagues, but despite his struggles, he never gave up on his dream, and it all paid off. Not only do I admire him as an athlete, but (also) he has given me the knowledge that has allowed me to be the ballplayer I am today. He has taught me a lot about the game — on and off the field.
Is there someone you try to model your game after?
Well, my dad has taught me everything I know about the game of baseball, but as far as modeling my game after anyone, no. I want people to remember me for having my own style and remembering my game and for being RJ — and not trying to be somebody I’m not.
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
On game days, my mom always gets me a Jersey Mike’s Philly cheesesteak; it’s my absolute favorite.
We are originally from Philadelphia, so I love them.
What is your favorite subject in school?
World history is my favorite subject in school, because it helps me learn and understand things about our past and how they have also helped shape things about our present and future.
What is your favorite movie?
“Major League” by far; it’s a classic. I could watch it all day, every day. I’ve probably seen it 1,000 times.
I love it, because it shows a lot about the game of baseball; the humor, the struggles, the comebacks. It has it all!
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
My great-grandpa. I never got to meet him, but he loved baseball — especially the Phillies. I know he would have loved to meet me, and I know he is watching over me — especially when I play. Sitting down with him would be an honor and something I wish I could’ve had the opportunity to do.
If you could go back in time, when and where would you go?
I would choose the 1950s. The era of rock ‘n’ roll looked super cool. The way people dressed, the slicked-back hair, Elvis Presley and the cool cars.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t be so hard on your mom, and listen to what she says. She knows what she’s talking about.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?
Did I make it to MLB?
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Super speed, so I could get to places at lightning speed. I can be impatient at times, so I’ve been told.
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?
Hawaii, Dubai and Greece. I love exotic places — especially places with that really blue water.
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?
I would choose gorilla, because they are feared, mighty and are well-known for their strength and agility.
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
No, fruit does not belong on pizza.
