The Los Angeles Dodgers' rotation has suffered yet another setback, compounding the challenges that have plagued their pitching staff all season. In their recent game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, rookie right-hander River Ryan was forced to leave the mound in the fifth inning due to forearm tightness, an ominous sign for any pitcher.
Ryan's issues began as early as the third inning, when he first experienced discomfort in his forearm. Despite employing a massage gun between innings in an attempt to mitigate the pain, Ryan's condition did not improve. By the fifth inning, the tightness had returned, prompting Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts to remove him from the game.
The immediate aftermath saw Ryan placed on the injured list the following day, and subsequent tests confirmed the worst-case scenario: a torn UCL in his throwing elbow. This injury will necessitate Tommy John surgery, effectively sidelining Ryan for the entire 2024 season and likely for the majority of 2025 as well.
Ryan, who debuted earlier this year, was seen as a promising addition to the Dodgers’ rotation. "Has the stuff to be a mid-rotation starter," remarked Baseball America, a sentiment that echoed the high hopes the Dodgers held for the rookie. Unfortunately, his season was already marred by a shoulder injury that kept him out for the first two months.
A Season Rife with Injuries
River Ryan is not alone in his struggles. Fellow pitcher Bobby Miller also faced significant time on the sidelines due to shoulder inflammation. Since his return, Miller has found it difficult to regain his form, posting an 8.07 ERA over seven major-league starts before being demoted to Triple-A. His Triple-A performance hasn't been much better, with a 5.82 ERA and a near-equal number of walks (16) and strikeouts (17) over five starts.
These issues are part of a broader pattern for the Dodgers, who have used 17 different starting pitchers this season, more than any other team in baseball. This constant shuffling has posed a considerable challenge for Manager Dave Roberts and his staff as they attempt to find a stable and effective rotation.
A Call for Reinforcements
In the wake of Ryan’s injury, the Dodgers called up right-handed pitcher Landon Knack to fill the void. While Knack's performance remains to be seen, his addition will be critical as the Dodgers work to preserve the health of their remaining arms and manage their innings carefully.
Keeping an Eye on the Standings
Despite these setbacks, the Dodgers currently boast a 70-49 record, the best in the National League. Their top spot, however, is under threat, with the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres trailing by just 3 1/2 games. Maintaining this position will require masterful management of the pitching staff and careful attention to the workload of each player.
Piecing together a rotation for the postseason presents a formidable challenge for Roberts and his staff. The health and readiness of the remaining pitchers will be paramount as the team aims to stay at the top of the National League standings. The situation necessitates a strategic approach, focusing on long-term health and strategic usage of available pitchers.
As the season progresses, the Dodgers' ability to adapt and overcome these adversities will be tested. Their resolve and resourcefulness will be crucial as they strive to achieve their postseason ambitions despite the hurdles they face. Holding onto their lead and pushing through the postseason will require every ounce of effort from the players and the strategic acumen of the coaching staff.