Forearm Tightness Sidelines Dodgers' Rookie Pitcher River Ryan
The Los Angeles Dodgers have encountered another setback with yet another starting pitcher succumbing to injury. Rookie right-hander River Ryan was forced to exit Saturday night's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates early, adding to the Dodgers' mounting woes in their pitching rotation.
A Troubling Departure
Ryan left the mound after 4 2/3 innings, having thrown just 56 pitches before being troubled by forearm tightness. The discomfort reportedly began during the third inning, though Ryan attempted to manage the situation by using a massage gun between innings. Despite these efforts, the tightness returned in the fifth inning, prompting his departure from the game.
"Hopefully we have some good news, and we'll see. Obviously, we've got to be careful with him. We'll know more tomorrow," said Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts. "But obviously, when you see a guy go on his forearm, it's always disconcerting," he added, underscoring the concern surrounding forearm injuries, which can sometimes precede more serious elbow issues.
Another Stint on the Injured List
Ryan, who will be placed on the injured list, has already faced his share of challenges this season. He had only recently returned to action after missing the first two months of the season due to a sore shoulder. The young pitcher will undergo further testing on Sunday to determine the extent of his current injury and to chart the next steps for his recovery.
This unfortunate turn of events for Ryan highlights the broader issue plaguing the Dodgers' pitching staff. Throughout the season, the team has utilized an astounding 17 different starting pitchers. This constant shuffle has undoubtedly impacted the team's rhythm and performance.
A Season of Challenges
The litany of injuries isn't limited to just one or two players. Bobby Miller, another notable name in the rotation, missed two months due to shoulder inflammation. Miller, who has shown potential, struggled to find his footing in the major leagues, posting an 8.07 ERA in his seven starts before being demoted. His performance in Triple-A has also been a mixed bag, with a 5.82 ERA. Despite these challenges, both Ryan and Miller are seen as valuable assets for the future.
Ryan's Promising Start
River Ryan's journey with the Dodgers began when he was traded from the San Diego Padres in exchange for utility man Matt Beaty in March 2022. Since joining the Dodgers, Ryan has shown flashes of brilliance. In his four MLB starts this year, he boasts an impressive 1.33 ERA, a testament to his potential when healthy. His contributions have not gone unnoticed; Baseball America recognized him as the No. 10 prospect in the Dodgers' farm system in their midseason update.
A Tumultuous Stretch
Despite a commendable 68-49 record overall, the Dodgers have found themselves in a slump, going 17-18 over their last 35 games. This decline has seen their once comfortable lead in the NL West shrink from 8.5 games on July 23 to a precarious 2.5 games at present. The latest setback with Ryan's injury only adds to the team's concerns as they strive to regain their form and solidify their playoff prospects.
As Ryan prepares for further testing and the Dodgers' medical staff assesses his condition, the team remains hopeful for positive news. The road to recovery may yet be another test for the young pitcher, but both Ryan and the Dodgers have demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity throughout the season.
In the ever-unpredictable world of baseball, the Dodgers continue to navigate their journey, holding onto the promise of their young talent and the hope of a healthier and more consistent pitching rotation.