The “Korean Monster” is well on his way back to the Toronto Blue Jays.
In three minor league appearances since undergoing ligament splicing surgery on his left elbow last June, Ryu has allowed two runs on 10 hits (one home run) in 12 innings. Most notably, he hasn’t walked a single batter while striking out 11.
Blue Jays Nation, a Toronto organization news outlet, reported that Korean-American pitcher Mitch White will likely be designated for assignment if Ryu returns to the big leagues.
“Ryu has been on a positive track as he prepares to return to the big leagues after undergoing elbow ligament splicing surgery. In three minor league rehab appearances, he has allowed two runs in 12 innings. He walked none and struck out 11.”
“After making just six starts before going under the knife last June, he has completely dominated minor league hitters in just over a year, and a return to the big leagues appears imminent.” 스포츠토토
If Ryu returns to the big leagues, the team could go with a six-man starting rotation, or one of the existing starters could move into the bullpen. For now, Yusei Kikuchi is the most likely candidate. This is because he would solve the lack of left-handed pitching.
“Someone would have to be removed from the 40-man roster to make room for Ryu, and with only 13 pitchers on the 26-man roster, someone from the existing roster would have to go,” the outlet said.
Mitch White is shaking. Because he’s the lowest-performing pitcher on the team, he’s the most likely to be cut. White, who was traded from the Los Angeles Dodgers to Toronto last year, has pitched in 10 games since the trade, losing five without a win. His ERA was 7.74.
This season has been no better. In eight starts, he is winless with a 6.10 ERA. According to the outlet, White’s future is uncertain when Ryu returns.