Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan turned in his third straight impressive start on Wednesday afternoon but left early after being struck with a line drive against the Cleveland Indians.
After holding the Indians to one hit over seven innings in his last start, Ryan was just as dominant on Wednesday. The right-hander threw five innings allowing one run on three hits with five strikeouts, lowering his season ERA to 2.12.
Joe Ryan, Nasty 81mph Slider. 😨 pic.twitter.com/QQX3lLoGg9
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) September 14, 2021
But Ryan’s afternoon ended early in the top of the sixth inning. With the game tied at 1, Ryan was struck with a comebacker off the bat of Myles Straw. Although he was able to move his fingers, he immediately walked off the mound and threw his glove into the dugout.
Joe Ryan has exited the game after taking a batted ball off his right hand/wrist. pic.twitter.com/BZLscpRH9D
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) September 14, 2021
The good news is that Ryan appeared to feel okay during the postgame interview according to The Athletic’s Aaron Gleeman.
Joe Ryan talked postgame and said he feels good.
"It's fine. I'm not too worried about it now. In the moment it was just a shock."
He actually apologized for not getting an out on the play. Regrets not being more "professional."
Can still see the seam of the ball on his wrist. pic.twitter.com/OuznNQlaAm
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) September 14, 2021
The top asset acquired in the Nelson Cruz trade showed plenty of potential this month, going 1-1 while striking out 14 batters in 17 innings. With all five spots in next year’s rotation up for grabs, Ryan may have earned a spot with his late-season performance.
