Dodger's Oldest Prospect River Ryan Could Break Out in 2026

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Just Baseball Show

River Ryan's Rising Prospects

River Ryan, a right-handed pitcher for the Dodgers, is considered a potential breakout star despite being one of the oldest prospects ever to be featured in a top 100 list at 28 years old. Ryan, a converted infielder from college, has shown promise with a diverse pitching arsenal including a fastball that reaches the upper 90s, a hard slider, a cutter, and more. His athleticism and skill set are bolstered by the supportive environment of the Dodgers, who are known for their strategic rotation pacing.

Ryan's Impressive Spring and Future Prospects

Having recovered fully from Tommy John surgery, Ryan has exhibited impressive form in spring training, notching 12 strikeouts and allowing just two earned runs over 9 and 2/3 innings. His performance suggests he could be a key player during the regular season, potentially securing a regular spot in the Dodgers' rotation.

Competition and Opportunities in the Dodgers' Rotation

The discussion also touched on other pitchers like Emmett Sheehan and Rokki Sasaki, speculating on their potential contributions. Concerns were raised about the amount of innings Ryan would need to solidify his breakout potential, especially with competition from players like Blake Snell returning from injury and the inclusion of Rokki Sasaki in the rotation. However, there is a growing belief that Sasaki might be better suited to a bullpen role, despite his success, which could open up more opportunities for Ryan and Sheehan in the rotation.

Strategic Moves in the Dodgers' Roster

The conversation concluded with insights into possible strategic plays by the Dodgers, suggesting that even if players like Rokki Sasaki were moved to roles such as a closer, it could be beneficial. This flexibility in managing pitcher roles might allow for maximizing individual strengths and addressing team needs, particularly if other pitchers do not perform as expected.