The Los Angeles Dodgers not only had their five-game winning streak and consecutive games with a home run snapped at 10 in Monday’s loss to the St. Louis Cardinals, they also saw Hyun-Jin Ryu forced to an early exit because of injury.
Other than oddly falling behind in counts, Ryu didn’t show any signs of trouble. But he signaled to the dugout delivering a pitch in the second inning, prompting Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and head athletic trainer Neal Rampe to make a mound visit.
A brief conversation ensued before Roberts gave Ryu a pat on his back as he walked off the field. Ryu allowed a two-run home run, walked two and struck out a pair in his 2.2 innings of work.
He was later diagnosed with a left groin strain. While it’s the same groin Ryu tore last season, he’s optimistic the injury is not nearly as severe this time around, via SportsNet LA:
“It was different from the pain that I felt last year. It was more of a precautionary measure to come out of the game. … I was fine warming up for today’s game. Even the first inning, I didn’t feel anything. But the very last pitch, I felt a little discomfort. I think it was a smart room to come out of the game. … Right now I’m not too concerned. I’ll have to see [Tuesday] but I’ll probably try to prepare as if I’m starting for my next outing. … I think I did all the tests you could possibly do, including range of motion. I just want to emphasize I don’t think I’m in a bad place at all right now. It was more of a precautionary measure.”
Although Ryu voiced hope he would remain on the active roster and potentially make his next scheduled turn, Roberts said the club will place the left-hander on the 10-day injure list. Ryu is expected to be replaced by a relief pitcher.
While the Dodgers already decided a roster move lied ahead, Roberts is not yet certain how much time Ryu will miss. He was sidelined three months last season becaue of the groin tear.