Toronto’s Hyun-jin Ryu, 36, is in the early stages of his return, throwing bullpen pitches. If Ryu returns healthy, Toronto’s starting rotation will need to be reorganized.

Ryu, who is rehabbing from elbow ligament reconstruction (Tommy John surgery) last year, rejoined the team for a game against Tampa Bay at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, on Aug. 23. He gave the green light for his return by pitching out of the bullpen while the coaching staff watched. The Toronto organization also showed their excitement by releasing a video of Ryu’s return.

With his health back, Ryu is expected to return to the starting rotation. Ryu, who signed a four-year free agent contract with Toronto, is in the final year of his deal. He was a starter for Toronto last season, going 21-12 with a 4.07 ERA in 49 games.메이저사이트

One of Toronto’s starters will likely go to the bullpen. Currently, Toronto’s starting rotation consists of Chris Bassett, Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, Alec Manoa, and Yusei Kikuchi. Bassitt (5-3, 3.03 ERA) and Gaussman (2-3, 3.14 ERA) have been somewhat stable.

At this point, barring an injury, one of Berrios (3-4, 4.61 ERA), Manoa (1-4, 5.15 ERA), or Kikuchi (5-1, 4.08 ERA) is likely to lose their spot in the rotation.

Berrios is hanging on, while Manoa, who went 16-7 with a 2.24 ERA last season, is in a slump with just one win. Kikuchi has had some luck, winning five games, but his ERA is high.

With Hyun-jin Ryu back in the fold, there will be an unseen competition among Toronto’s starting pitchers to keep their jobs when he returns.