The Los Angeles Dodgers dropped the first of a three-game series against the Washington Nationals, as they were again stifled by a left-handed starter and relievers.
One positive the Dodgers took away from the game was that starter Hyun-Jin Ryu threw seven innings for the first time since August 2014. He allowed up seven hits and four runs, while striking out four without issuing a walk.
With consecutive strong outings, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Ryu earned another opportunity to start. “I feel like I’m getting stronger as the season is progressing,” Ryu said through a translator.
“I was pretty happy to see 94 mph on the radar gun but at the same time, I gave up runs with two outs so I wasn’t really too happy with that.”
Ryu’s role had been in flux due to subpar performances and a crowded rotation. That coincided with pitching out of the bullpen for the first time in his career. Whether Ryu eventually returns to the bullpen can’t necessarily be ruled out.
It’s not a role the 30-year-old previously said he envisions for himself, saying he’s a starting pitcher “at heart.” Though, Ryu will put the team’s best interests ahead of his.
“As a player, my job is to go out there and pitch whenever the team wants me to. I’m glad Doc said he’s giving me another chance,” Ryu said. “Considering my situation, coming back from two years of surgery, I’ll take it one game at a time and take it from there. I’m just glad he’s willing to give me another chance.”
In 10 games (nine starts) this season, Ryu is 2-6 with a 4.08 ERA, 4.71 FIP and 1.34 WHIP. He has yielded a 2.65 ERA in 17 innings over his past three starts, while recording 10 strikeouts to just two walks during that span.
