FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas has added a major piece to its 2025 baseball roster with the commitment of Damian Ruiz, the 2025 Southland Conference Hitter of the Year and a transfer outfielder from Lamar.
Ruiz, a 6-foot-1, 170-pound native of Livingston, Texas, announced his decision Sunday on social media.
Ruiz batted .388 with a .607 slugging percentage and a .511 on-base percentage as a redshirt sophomore at Lamar, finishing with 83 hits, 22 doubles, seven home runs and 46 RBIs. He led the Southland Conference in doubles and was recognized as the league’s Hitter of the Year in May.
Ruiz drew 50 walks and struck out just 27 times in 56 games during the 2025 season, displaying a patient approach at the plate. He also scored a team-record 76 runs and stole 14 bases, helping Lamar to a 36-21 record.
He played primarily in right field and posted a .978 fielding percentage with two errors in 89 chances. Ruiz transferred to Lamar from Houston Christian, where he batted .256 with nine doubles and four home runs across two seasons.
Ruiz is the eighth transfer addition for Arkansas this offseason. The Razorbacks have also added right-handed pitchers Jackson Wells and Jackson Kircher, left-handed pitcher Ethan McElvain, shortstop Dylan Grego, infielder Maika Niu and outfielder Zack Stewart.
Arkansas finished third in the final USA Today Coaches Poll for 2025, reaching 50 wins for the first time since 2021.
Ruiz’s transfer was closely watched by programs including LSU and Mississippi State, but Arkansas’ recent success and player development track record proved decisive.
Ruiz’s commitment reflects broader trends in college baseball, where the transfer portal and NIL opportunities have made it easier for players to change programs. Arkansas has capitalized, landing several high-impact transfers in recent years.
With Ruiz on board, the Razorbacks will have increased lineup flexibility and competition for playing time in the outfield. Van Horn faces the challenge of blending new arrivals with returning talent as the team aims for another deep postseason run.
