Joe Ryan Injury Update, Who is Joe Ryan?
by Mathelene
Updated Aug 29, 2023
Joe Ryan Injury Update
The Minnesota Twins have made a significant move concerning their right-handed pitcher, Joe Ryan. After missing nearly a month of action due to a groin injury, Ryan is set to make his return to the mound. The injury, which he had concealed from the team since late June, sidelined him for an extended period.
However, the team has now activated him from the injured list in preparation for his upcoming start against the Texas Rangers, a game that's being viewed as a potential preview for an upcoming playoff matchup. In a corresponding roster move, the Twins have decided to send fellow right-handed pitcher Jordan Balazovic to their Triple-A affiliate in St. Paul. This move was necessary to accommodate Ryan's return to the active roster.
Looking back at Ryan's performance prior to the injury, he had been showing promising results. Across 22 starts, he had compiled a 4.43 ERA, which, when adjusted for the league average, equated to a 99 ERA+. His strikeout-to-walk ratio was particularly impressive at 6.08.
However, it's important to note that these numbers were influenced by a period of below-par pitching that occurred in the timeframe between the start of his groin injury (before his June 27 appearance) and the point when he eventually disclosed the injury to the Twins' training staff.
To provide more context, in the 16 starts he made up until the end of June, Ryan boasted a strong 3.44 ERA and an excellent 7.00 strikeout-to-walk ratio. This signified his effectiveness on the mound during this period. In contrast, over the six starts that followed before he was placed on the injured list, his performance experienced a considerable decline. During this stretch, he accumulated a less favorable 7.67 ERA and a 4.7 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Twins manager Rocco Baldelli addressed the situation when Ryan's injury was first acknowledged, emphasizing the importance of open communication regarding injuries. Baldelli stated that Ryan himself realized the significance of improved communication: "The communication on this certainly has to be better and (Ryan) knows that. We talked about that with Joe. It was something that he thought he could just manage himself and pitch through easily and not worry about it. I think he came to the realization that he needs to let us know these things." Ryan acknowledged his error in judgment as well, admitting that he should have been more transparent about his injury: "I was trying to do it on my own. Didn't probably take the best routes to notifying everyone."
As the Twins gear up for their upcoming games, they currently hold a season record of 67-62. This positions them with a comfortable six-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians in the American League Central division, making them the front-runners by the largest margin in the American League. The return of Joe Ryan adds a hopeful note to their upcoming matchups and potential postseason prospects.
Who is Joe Ryan?
Joseph Philip Ryan is a skilled American professional baseball pitcher who currently plays for the Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball (MLB). He was born on June 5, 1996. His journey in professional baseball began when he was selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the seventh round of the 2018 MLB draft. This marked a pivotal moment in his career, as he took his initial steps toward the highest level of the sport.
Ryan's dedication and hard work ultimately led him to achieve his dream of playing in the MLB. He made his long-awaited MLB debut while wearing the uniform of the Minnesota Twins in the year 2021. This marked a significant milestone not only for Ryan but also for the Twins organization.
His prowess on the mound has solidified his position as a noteworthy player in the league. With a focus on delivering impressive pitches and showcasing his pitching skills, Ryan has become an integral part of the Minnesota Twins' roster. His ability to command the baseball and perform under pressure has earned him recognition among his peers and fans alike.
As he continues to refine his craft and contribute to his team's success, Joseph Philip Ryan exemplifies the essence of a determined and accomplished professional baseball pitcher. His journey from being drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays to making a mark with the Minnesota Twins serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and stands as a testament to the rewards of perseverance and commitment in the world of sports.
Full Name
Joseph Philip Ryan
Date of Birth
June 5, 1996
Age
27 years (as of 2023)
Position
Pitcher
Team
Minnesota Twins
Nationality
American
Joe Ryan Age
As of 2023, Joe Ryan's age stands at 27 years. His educational journey started at Sir Francis Drake High School located in San Anselmo, California. Notably, he caught the attention of the San Francisco Giants during the 2014 Major League Baseball draft, being selected in the 39th round. However, he opted not to sign with the Giants and instead pursued college baseball at California State University, Northridge.
During the years 2015 and 2016, Ryan took part in collegiate summer baseball, suiting up for the Orleans Firebirds in the Cape Cod Baseball League. His performance during this period was remarkable enough to earn him a spot as a league all-star in 2016. In his quest for excellence in baseball, Ryan's educational journey led him to California State University, Stanislaus, where he transferred in 2018. This transition marked a significant step in his development as a player.
Throughout his journey, Joe Ryan's dedication to the sport and his desire to refine his skills have been evident. From his high school days in California to his collegiate baseball experiences, his path has been one of growth, learning, and an unwavering commitment to his passion for the game.
Joe Ryan Career
Joe Ryan's professional baseball journey has seen him rise through the ranks, showcasing his talents and determination. His career began when he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays as the 210th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2018 MLB draft, a moment that marked his official entry into the world of professional baseball.
Signing with the Rays, he initiated his path in the Minor Leagues, making his debut with the Hudson Valley Renegades. Over the course of 36 and one-third innings, Ryan accumulated a 2-1 record and maintained a 3.72 ERA during this period. In 2019, Ryan's journey continued as he progressed through the Minor League system.
Starting with the Bowling Green Hot Rods, he advanced to play for the Charlotte Stone Crabs and the Montgomery Biscuits throughout the season. Over 24 games, 22 of which were starts, he impressively achieved a 9-4 record, boasting an exceptional 1.96 ERA. His pitching prowess was highlighted by his ability to strike out 183 batters across 123 and two-thirds innings, showcasing his command on the mound.
The unforeseen challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic affected the 2020 Minor League season, leading to its cancellation and thus preventing Ryan from participating in any games during that year. By 2021, Ryan found himself with the Triple-A Durham Bulls, starting the season with them. His record of 4-3 and an ERA of 3.63 in 12 appearances (11 of which were starts) spoke to his capabilities and consistency as a pitcher.
A pivotal turn in Ryan's career came on July 22, 2021, while he was participating in the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. It was during this time that he was traded to the Minnesota Twins, alongside Drew Strotman, as part of a trade involving Nelson Cruz and Calvin Faucher.
Following his trade, Ryan's journey with the Twins' organization commenced. Impressive performances with the Triple-A St. Paul Saints led to the Twins selecting his contract, and he made his MLB debut on September 1, 2021, facing the Chicago Cubs. His inaugural MLB appearance saw him pitch five innings, yielding three runs while striking out five.
Ryan's potential was recognized further when, on April 1, 2022, he was named the starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins on Opening Day. This marked a significant moment as he embarked on his first Opening Day start against the Seattle Mariners. Beyond his professional journey, Ryan has also represented his country on the international stage.
He was selected for the United States national baseball team, both during the qualifying period and as a member of the roster for the 2020 Summer Olympics. The team earned a silver medal in the Olympics, highlighting Ryan's contributions on a global platform.
Joe Ryan Injury Update - FAQs
Before his injury, Joe Ryan had compiled a 4.43 ERA and a 6.08 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 22 starts.
Joe Ryan made his MLB debut on September 1, 2021, starting against the Chicago Cubs.
Joe Ryan was sidelined for almost a month due to a groin injury.
Joe Ryan is a right-handed pitcher for the Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball.
Joe Ryan's performance was affected by his injury, with a stretch of poor pitching occurring between the time he suffered the groin injury and when he reported it to the Twins' training staff.