MLB star pitcher, Ryu Hyun-jin was seen watching Game 5 of the Korean Series LG Twins and the KT Wiz. To fans, it looks like he is resting and enjoying himself after 2023 MLB season. However, he may have a lot more on his mind then his calm demeanor would suggest. This is because After 4 seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, Ryu Hyun-jin is now a free agent. Therefore, every Korean baseball betting fan wants to know Which Team Will Ryu Hyun-jin Play For in 2024
Some baseball analysts thought that the 36-year-old lefty pitcher would return to the KBO after his time with Toronto. In the past, Ryu said that he wants to finish his career with his first baseball team, the Hanwha Eagles. However, that may not happen in 2024 as he remains a hot commodity in the MLB.
According to his agent, Scott Boras, several MLB clubs have shown a great deal of interest in Ryu. Therefore, it is unlikely that he will return to the Hanwha Eagles next season. Of course, if it were to happen those who bet on the Hanwha Eagles would be very happy with the news.
MLB Free Agent Update – Which Team Will Ryu Hyun-jin Play For in 2024
Ryu is entering the free agent market after a successful return from Tommy John surgery during the second-half of 2023. Despite his marketability having taken a hit after his injury, he remains a solid choice as a starting pitcher.
After the 2019 season, Ryu Hyun-jin left the Dodgers while leading the NL with a 2.32 ERA. This led to a 4-year contract worth $80 million with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2020. While his first season with the Blue Jays was impressive, he began to struggle in 2021 and 2022. In the end he had to undergo Tommy John Surgery and did not get back on the mound until August of 2023.
At the moment, he is one of the softest throwers in baseball averaging just 88 MPH on his fastball. However, that does not reflect in his ERA thanks wo his wide pitching repertoire and control of the ball. After returning from surgery, Ryu made 11 starts with the Blue Jays in 2023. During that time, he had a 3.46 ERA, 1.29 WHIP record and a 38/14 K/BB ratio across 52 innings.
With this kind of record and abilities, he will definitively receive enough interest for a 1 to 2 years contract. Online sports wagering industry experts expect him to get at least a 1-year contract in the $10 million range.
It is a definite possibility that the Blue Jays could resign him as their 2024 rotation could use help. He remains a popular player in the club house and could offer starting pitching insurance. Especially with many uncertainties around Alek Manoah.
In addition, we could see him going to the Pittsburgh Pirates. This is because he would improve their starting rotation and bring strong veteran leadership to the team.
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