Joe Ryan's World Baseball Classic Update: A Shift in Plans
In Fort Myers, Florida, Joe Ryan recently completed a 23-pitch bullpen session on March 14, and by all accounts, he's feeling great. However, there's a change in his World Baseball Classic plans.
Originally in the designated pitcher pool for Team USA, Ryan was a potential option for the March 17 championship game if the USA advanced. Instead, Team USA has opted to bolster their bullpen by adding Toronto's Jeff Hoffman, a one-inning reliever, for the final stretch.
Team USA is gearing up for a semifinal showdown against the Dominican Republic on March 15 in Miami. If they make it to the title game, New York Mets' righthander Nolan McLean is slated to take the mound.
Ryan's journey with Team USA began back in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where he proudly represented the nation. He was initially lined up to be a starter for the World Baseball Classic, but plans shifted due to back inflammation that sidelined him in late February. Since then, he's been easing back into action, including a three-inning spring training start against Tampa Bay on March 10.
Looking ahead, Ryan is poised to be the Opening Day starter for the Minnesota Twins when they face Baltimore on March 26. With two more Grapefruit League appearances on the horizon, he's on track to be in top form for the regular season.