Dodgers News: Hyun-Jin Ryu Will Start Thursday
Hyun-Jin Ryu was roughed up in his return from the DL Thursday. He allowed 10 runs (five earned) over four innings in a loss to Colorado.
Dave Roberts suggested Ryu’s next start would be pushed back. We now have a date.
Ryu pitches Thursday in the opener against Miami. Alex Wood will follow him. Ryu was initially set to pitch Tuesday.
Hyun-Jin Ryu will start Thursday and Alex Wood will start Friday, Dave Roberts said.
— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) May 16, 2017
The severity of recent Dodgers pitching injuries has been questioned, with some opining that L.A. is taking advantaged of the shorter DL. That doesn’t appear to be the case here. Ryu made one start in the two seasons prior to 2017, and this year hasn’t gone as hoped. He’s 1-5 with a 4.99 ERA.
Ryu needs time to build back strength, but he’s hurt the team in the meantime. Los Angeles appears committed to a patient approach, so don’t expect any swift change soon. If Ryu’s struggles continue, he could be bumped to the bullpen. Roberts already said the team won’t consider a six-man rotation.
Adrian Gonzalez and Logan Forsythe are rehabbing in Single-A
The Dodgers are to the point were they have to trade some of their starting pitching. Continuing to juggle 7 starters can’t last, and putting a starter in the bullpen only takes that spot away from a legitimate short reliever. There are plenty of teams that could use a starting pitcher. Showcase Ryu and then trade him, get more minor leaguers in the deal. Then work on getting rid of Kazmir the same way. Do that and we still have one too many starters!