Hyun Jin Ryu to Make Season Debut Against Orioles

13 months after Tommy John Surgery, Hyun Jin Ryu will make his season debut on Tuesday against the Orioles.

Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Hyun Jin Ryu is back in the Blue Jays rotation.

The left-handed starter hasn't pitched in the big leagues since June of last season, missing the last 13 months recovering from Tommy John surgery. Ryu's 2023 debut will come on Tuesday, August 1st against the Orioles in Toronto.

"He's ready to roll," manager John Schneider said. "Push the go button and don't look back."

Ryu has been making rehab starts for the last few weeks, pitching 18 innings across three minor-league levels. In two Triple-A starts earlier this month, Ryu allowed three runs in 11 innings, striking out 10 batters. He's been hovering just under 90 MPH with his fastballs. The lefty will not be on a pitch count for his return, Schneider said.

Ryu made six starts prior to surgery last year, posting a 5.67 ERA in 27 frames. In his last full season (2021) the southpaw rocked a 4.37 ERA across 31 starts. 

With Ryu back in the fold, the Blue Jays will transition into a six-man rotation for the foreseeable future. 

"I think it helps, anytime you can get an extra day rest for a starter it's a good thing," Schneider said. "Once we get through it a time or two we'll kind of see where we're at."