“It’s okay if the ball’s slow, I’ve got a blade” U.S. media looks to Ryu for new options for Toronto starters

After undergoing left elbow ligament reconstruction surgery last June, Ryu Hyun-jin (Toronto Blue Jays) is close to returning to the big leagues.

In 175 career major league games (1003⅓ innings), Hyun-jin Ryu has a 75-45 record with a 3.27 ERA, but he struggled last year, going 2-2 with a 5.67 ERA in six games (27 innings). He has been rehabbing after undergoing ligament splicing surgery on his left elbow in June last year.

In his first post-surgery appearance against the Detroit Tigers’ minor league affiliate, the FCL Tigers, on May 5 (KST), Ryu threw three innings of four-hit ball with five strikeouts and one run allowed, and then threw a no-hitter in his second appearance.

On Tuesday, he started a home game against the Single-A Florida State League’s Tampa Bay Rays (affiliated with the New York Yankees) at TD Ballpark in Dunedin, Florida. Threw four innings of three-hit ball, striking out one and walking none. Threw 27 strikes out of 37 total pitches. His fastball reached 88.4 mph (142.2 km/h).안전놀이터

“The former All-Star could return to the big leagues later this month and become a new option in Toronto’s starting rotation,” Sports Illustrated’s Fan Nation reported on Wednesday. His velocity isn’t as high, but he’s still competitive with his veteran stuff, according to the publication.

“Ryu’s fastball was 88.4 mph last year, slower than his average velocity. However, improving his velocity is not important for Ryu. He’ll be an integral part of the starting rotation with his excellent velocity and command.”

“If Ryu returns healthy at the end of the month, it will be good news for the team ahead of the trade deadline,” the publication added.

“While Ryu’s place in the starting rotation is still up in the air, he should be able to provide some depth alongside Jose Berrios, Kevin Gausman, Yusei Kikuchi, Chris Bassett, and Alec Manoa.”

The outlet notes that Toronto is in third place in the American League East with a 50-41 record. The team is in a wild-card race with the Houston Astros, and the return of All-Star Hyun-jin Ryu will be a boost.