The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured a 6-2 series victory over the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park, thanks to a dominant starting pitching staff led by River Ryan.
The rookie right-hander allowed just two hits and one run in 5.2 innings of work while striking out a career-high eight batters. He walked the first two batters of the game, but then struck out 11 of the next 12 batters he faced.
Ryan continued his no-hitter into the fifth inning, but lost it when leadoff batter John Singleton hit a double and Singleton was called after Ryan got the next three outs.
After the game, Ryan, via Juan Toribio of MLB.com, credited his success to sticking with the same game plan he’s used throughout his career.
“I just stuck to the same game plan I’ve used my whole career against lefties and righties,” Ryan said. “I executed it well today and it worked.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was impressed with Ryan’s pitching prowess.
“The fastball is definitely working and has some life in it,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I thought the curveball was really good today against right-handed hitters, especially against lefties. … It was good to see him use his four-pitch combination effectively, and we pushed him.”
Ryan was excited to achieve his long-held goal of winning a major league baseball championship.
“It’s unbelievable,” Ryan said of his first career win. “Pitching in the major leagues is what you strive for your whole life, and I’m fortunate to have gotten the win.”
With Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw both recently returning from injuries but other key starters still working their way back, Ryan has given the Dodgers’ starting rotation a much-needed boost during uncertain times.
In his two major league starts, Ryan posted a paltry 0.82 ERA, 2.97 FIP and 1.09 WHIP with 10 strikeouts and six walks in 11 innings pitched.
Will River Ryan remain in the Dodgers starting rotation?
Ryan is currently in a five-man rotation, but there are indications the Dodgers will add at least one starting pitcher before the July 30 trade deadline.
Despite the potential additions and expected return of others, Ryan likely earned more opportunities with the Dodgers.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Hit the notification bell to watch player interviews, enter shows and giveaways, and keep up with the latest Dodgers news and rumors.
