Dodgers' River Ryan Out for Season Due to Elbow Injury

Los Angeles Dodgers rookie right-hander River Ryan will miss the remainder of the 2024 season due to an elbow injury sustained during his fourth major league start against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Ryan underwent an MRI on Sunday, but the specifics of the injury remain unclear. There is a possibility that Ryan may require Tommy John surgery, pending further scans to determine the best course of action. In his brief stint this season, Ryan posted a 1-0 record with an impressive 1.33 ERA, having pitched 4 2/3 scoreless innings before his early exit on Saturday. The 25-year-old, who was acquired from the San Diego Padres in March 2022, had also shown promise in the minor leagues, recording a 2.22 ERA over eight starts in 2024. The Dodgers have been cautious with his usage, limiting him to 49 appearances over three seasons. Ryan reported feeling tightness in his forearm during the third inning of Saturday's game but continued to pitch until discomfort forced his removal in the fifth inning. Reflecting on the experience, Ryan noted the impact of the pitch clock on his performance, suggesting that the accelerated pace of play may contribute to physical strain. “It’s part of the game, man,” he remarked, indicating his understanding of the challenges faced by pitchers in the current era.