Just when the Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing to get ace starter Clayton Kershaw back on the bump, another top-end pitcher for the two-time defending NL champs might be on the shelf for a bit.
Hyun-Jin Ryu exited Monday’s start against the St. Louis Cardinals in the second inning after suffering what’s being called a strained left groin.
It’s the same muscle that he tore last season — missing three months in the process.
Ryu, 32, entered Monday’s start having posted a 2-0 record with a 2.08 ERA and 0.77 WHIP with as many strikeouts (13) as innings pitched.
As noted above, he missed substantial time last season to a similar injury. Ryu will get more tests in St. Louis Monday evening.
The hope here is that it is confirmed to be a strain and nothing more.