Ryu Hyun-jin’s career over at Hanwha? Not now…US media “will be interested in RYU winter” positive outlook
Ryu Hyun-jin (36, Toronto Blue Jays) is still an attractive resource in the Major League Baseball free agent market, according to a report from the United States.
BVM Sports recently reported that “Ryu hinted at continuing his career in the major leagues,” referring to an airport interview with Ryu upon his return to South Korea on April 18.
Ryu is in the final year of a four-year, $80 million contract with Toronto and is 3-3 with a 3.46 ERA in 11 starts. He returned in August after undergoing elbow ligament splicing surgery last June, and cruised through mid-September as a man of will before faltering in back-to-back starts against the Tampa Bay Rays on Sept. 24 (five runs in 4⅓ innings) and Oct. 1 (two runs in three innings). After being cut from the Wild Card Series roster, Ryu’s four-year tenure with the Rays came to an end with Toronto’s series loss.
“I think I did a good enough job to come back this season,” Ryu told reporters at the arrivals hall of Incheon International Airport on April 18, “but it’s unfortunate that I didn’t get to pitch in the postseason. I was preparing for after the Wild Card Series, so I would have liked the team to win, but unfortunately the season ended. Still, I have no regrets about fall baseball,” he reflected.
He also gave his honest thoughts on his future plans. “I don’t know what’s going to happen yet. It’s hard to say right now. I think we have to wait and see,” he said, adding that he would like to extend his career in the U.S. “If there is a good deal, I would definitely like to stay in the major leagues.”
His plan to retire with his hometown team Hanwha also remained in place. “My mindset hasn’t changed that I want to play my last game for Hanwha. Of course I will,” he said.
BVM Sports reported, “With his contract expiring with Toronto, Ryu is not ready to retire from the major leagues. However, 먹튀검증 he expressed his desire to finish his career with the Hanwha Eagles of the KBO,” BVM Sports reported.
In regards to Ryu’s return to Hanwha, the media outlet expressed the view that now is not the time to return to his family. This was followed by an analysis that Ryu is still an attractive free agent pitcher in the major leagues.
“Ryu had a strong first season in Toronto, but has battled injuries ever since, but he has had a successful career thus far and is expected to attract interest (from major league clubs) this winter,” BVM Sports wrote in a positive outlook.
“I expect to be better next year. I think it’s enough for me to come back this year,” he said. “The fans have given me a lot of support and encouragement, so I’m very grateful, and I will try to give them more joy with better games on the mound next year.”