The Los Angeles Dodgers had to make a tough decision as they placed rookie right-handed pitcher River Ryan on the 15-day injured list due to right forearm tightness. This unfortunate news came after Ryan left the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the fifth inning, despite delivering an impressive performance with four hits and four strikeouts in 4 2/3 scoreless innings. The Dodgers ended up winning the game 4-1 against the Pirates, thanks in part to Ryan’s efforts on the mound.
River Ryan, who is set to turn 26, expressed his disappointment at having to leave the game prematurely. He had been using a massage gun to alleviate discomfort in his right forearm since the third inning, but ultimately had to exit the game after a couple of pitches in the fifth inning gave away his discomfort. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shared his sympathy for Ryan, acknowledging the promising energy he brought to the game.
In Ryan’s absence, the Dodgers called up fellow rookie right-hander Landon Knack from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Knack, 27, has shown promise since making his major league debut earlier in the season, boasting a 2-2 record with a 3.07 ERA, 42 strikeouts, and 12 walks in 44 innings over nine games. He was selected by the Dodgers in the second round of the 2020 MLB Draft from East Tennessee State.
River Ryan’s setback is a blow to the Dodgers’ pitching staff, as he had been performing exceptionally well with a 1-0 record, a 1.33 ERA, and 18 strikeouts in just over 20 innings pitched across four starts. Despite this setback, Ryan remains a key prospect for the organization, ranked as the No. 4 prospect by MLB Pipeline.
The Dodgers will now look to Knack to step up in Ryan’s absence and continue to contribute to the team’s success on the mound. As the season progresses, the team will need to rely on its depth and resilience to overcome injuries and challenges that come their way. The support from fellow teammates, coaches, and fans will be crucial in navigating through this difficult period and maintaining a competitive edge in the league.
