Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Joe Ryan, 29-year-old right-hander for the Minnesota Twins, exited his start against the Blue Jays in the first inning after just nine pitches due to elbow discomfort. An MRI revealed no structural damage, which was excellent news for the Twins organization. Ryan has since cleared multiple hurdles in his recovery: he played catch on Tuesday and threw a successful bullpen session on Wednesday, reporting that his velocity was good and all offspeed stuff was working well. He is on track to make his next start on Saturday in Cleveland, representing a best-case scenario outcome. Ryan has been one of the steadier pitchers in the American League since his 2021 debut, posting a 3.79 ERA with a strong 27.5% strikeout rate and excellent 5.7% walk rate across 123 appearances.
Strengths
- + No structural damage confirmed by MRI
- + Successfully completed catch session
- + Bullpen session went well with good velocity
- + All offspeed pitches working effectively
- + On track to start Saturday in Cleveland
- + Consistent performer with 3.79 ERA since 2021
- + Elite 27.5% strikeout rate
- + Excellent 5.7% walk rate
- + Cautious approach by player and organization minimized risk
Weaknesses
- - Experienced elbow discomfort during recent start
- - Exited after only nine pitches
- - Fly-ball pitcher with homer-prone tendencies
- - Lacks premium velocity
- - Unfamiliar discomfort sensation on multiple pitches
Injury Status: day-to-day
About
Ryan Hendrix is a rp for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
RP
Chicago Cubs