“I’m bound to get rusty, but…”
For now, Hyun-jin Ryu (Toronto Blue Jays) is expected to be ready for the home game against the Chicago Cubs on the 14th. His knee, which was hit by a pitch in the second inning of the fourth game against the Cleveland Indians on the 13th, has been examined and found to be in good shape.
The Cleveland offence is unimpressive, ranking seventh in the American League in batting average (.249) and 11th in OPS (.691). Still, it was a big game for Ryu, who needed to get a feel for the major leagues after a year and two months away. He pitched four innings of no-hit ball, striking out two and walking one.안전놀이터
Ryu will need to prove that his strong outing against Cleveland on the 14th was no fluke. The Cubs bats are fifth in the National League with a .257 batting average and fourth with a .754 OPS. There are quite a few hitters to watch out for, including Cody Bellinger, who has completely rebounded this year, Mike Tuckman from the KBO’s Hanwha Eagles, second baseman Nico Houner, and catcher Jan Gomes.
Ryu Hyun-jin calmly picks up the ball./Getty Images Korea
The important thing is for Ryu to prove that he’s back to being Ryu in the 10 or so games he’ll pitch this season. It’s a sample size to show that he’s back to his old self, not to mention healthy. If he wants to stay in the majors in 2023-2024 free agency, the second half of the season will be crucial. It could determine his price tag.
For Toronto, they’re actually hoping that Ryu can provide a boost to the Kevin Gausman-led starting rotation and help solidify Toronto’s wild-card hopes. If Toronto makes the postseason, Ryu will get a chance to pitch for the first time in three years after the 2020 season. It’s the final stage of a four-year, $80 million contract.
Ryu will look for his first win in Game 2 of Game 3/Getty Images Korea
Bleacher Report did not forget about Hyun-jin Ryu as it highlighted players who have just returned from injury, or will be returning, who could provide a boost in the final postseason race of the season. “Ryu was bound to have some rust, but his return means Toronto has the ability to go to a six-man rotation the rest of the way. He suffered a right knee contusion in Game 8, so he may go short in his next outing.”
The Bleacher Report also brought up some familiar names, including Clayton Kershaw, Walker Buehler (LA Dodgers) and Mike Trout (Angels). Ryu is arguably the player to look forward to the most, as he’s already back and contributing to his team.