The Los Angeles Dodgers face yet another challenge as they deal with another injury to their pitching staff. This time, it's rookie right-hander River Ryan who has been sidelined. Ryan exited Saturday night's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates following 4 2/3 innings and 56 pitches due to forearm tightness.
Ryan first experienced discomfort in his forearm during the third inning. In an attempt to alleviate the pain, he used a massage gun between innings. Unfortunately, the tightness resurfaced in the fifth inning, prompting his early departure from the game. As a precaution, Ryan will be placed on the injured list and is slated for further testing on Sunday.
Manager Dave Roberts expressed his concern over Ryan's condition, stating, "Hopefully we have some good news, and we'll see. Obviously, we've got to be careful with him. We'll know more tomorrow." Roberts added, "But obviously, when you see a guy go on his forearm, it's always disconcerting."
This setback is particularly disappointing for Ryan, who had just returned to action after missing the first two months of the season with a sore shoulder. Despite the limited time on the mound this year, Ryan has made a strong impression, boasting an impressive 1.33 ERA in his four MLB starts. Baseball America recently recognized him as the No. 10 prospect in the Dodgers' system in their midseason update.
Rotation Woes
The Dodgers have faced an uncanny streak of injuries to their pitching staff this season. To date, they have used 17 different starting pitchers, a testament to the extent of their injury troubles. Ryan's injury adds to a growing list that includes Bobby Miller, who missed two months with shoulder inflammation. Miller, who had a rough patch in the majors with an 8.07 ERA in seven starts, hasn't found much more success in Triple-A, where he holds a 5.82 ERA with nearly as many walks (16) as strikeouts (17) in five starts.
Ryan joined the Dodgers in a minor trade from the San Diego Padres in March 2022, in exchange for utility man Matt Beaty. His promising start this season has provided a glimmer of hope for the Dodgers' pitching staff, making his injury an even more frustrating development.
Dodgers' Recent Struggles
Compounding their pitching woes, the Dodgers' overall performance has also taken a hit. With a current record of 68-49, they have stumbled to a 17-18 mark over their last 35 games. This slump has led to their once commanding NL West lead shrinking from 8.5 games on July 23 to just 2.5 games now.
As the Dodgers await more information on Ryan's condition, the focus shifts to maintaining their position in the standings amid a challenging stretch. While their record still reflects a team with considerable talent, the rash of injuries, particularly to key pitchers, poses a significant obstacle.
The next steps for the Dodgers will be closely watched, as the team seeks to stabilize its rotation and continue its push toward the postseason. Manager Dave Roberts and the Dodgers' medical staff will undoubtedly be hoping for positive news regarding River Ryan's forearm, with the hope that the promising rookie can return to bolster a beleaguered pitching staff.