“He is already popular in the clubhouse… “
Can Ryu Hyun-jin (36, free agent) and the Toronto Blue Jays continue their relationship? The Athletic did not rule out the possibility on the 12th (hereinafter Korean time), but weighed in on the breakup. Ryu Hyun-jin, who completed his four-year, $80 million contract, will enter the 2023-2024 free agent market.메이저놀이터
On the 12th (Korean time), The Athletic published an article asking and answering several questions about Toronto, which is entering the offseason. He mentioned whether Toronto should retain free agent Ryu Hyun-jin, and posted the fact that he recorded 3 wins, 3 losses, and an average ERA of 3.46 in 11 games this season.
The Athletic said, “Ryu Hyun-jin’s successful return from Tommy John surgery in the second half was one of the team’s best stories this season. He was a stable 5th starter for Toronto. Hyun-Jin Ryu provided the club with a satisfactory conclusion to the four-year, $80 million contract he signed ahead of the 2020 season. “It is generally considered to have ushered in a more competitive era for the club.”
Ryu Hyun-jin’s future actions were looked at calmly. The Athletic said, “Ryu Hyun-jin will turn 37 next season, and his average fastball velocity this season was 89.8 mph (about 144.5 km). There’s no guarantee he’ll continue pitching like this. “He hasn’t thought about his future after the season, but Toronto could be a desirable location if he wants another full season.”
However, The Athletic said: “He is already popular in the clubhouse and comfortable with the organization. However, there is only one vacancy in Toronto’s rotation and the club may want to reserve that space in their system for Alec Manoa and other young players.”
Toronto is certain to have the 1st to 4th starters next year, starting with ace Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, Chris Bassett, and Yusei Kikuchi. It would be perfect if Alec Manoa, who has been underperforming this year, returns and takes over as the 5th starter. In a long-term race, the more starting pitchers the better, but Toronto must also secure the debut of top left-hander Ricky Tiderman. Although he is now a forgotten prospect, there is also Nate Pearson.
It is true that signing a one-year contract with Ryu Hyun-jin means guaranteeing opportunities, which hinders the development of young pitchers. If Toronto is worried about its 1st to 4th starters, it would be okay to sign a pitcher like Ryu Hyun-jin to a 1-2 year contract, but that is not the situation.
Ryu Hyun-jin lacks speed and durability. He is old too. Instead, he has the advantage of game management ability, command, and experience. As a veteran with clear strengths and weaknesses, he is a suitable card for the 4th or 5th starter with a 1-2 year contract. There are many teams in the free agent market who want a pitcher like this. It would not be strange for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who were devastated that day, to reach out to Ryu Hyun-jin in a situation where their starting lineup depth has weakened.As for Ryu Hyun-jin, he just needs to calmly wait for offers from many clubs in the free agent market. There seems to be no reason to renew his contract with Toronto. It is time for Toronto and Ryu Hyun-jin to part ways.