November 30, 2022
Right-handed pitcher Sam Ryan has big plans this off-season. Ryan, who entered pro ball in 2019 with a four-pitch mix is looking to improve his changeup this winter – while adding velo to his 4-seam fastball.
“My biggest off-season goal is to improve my changeup,” stated Ryan. “I’d like to gain a little more control of it and give it a little more sink. Also I want to hit 97 next season so I’m getting after it in the weight room.”
Ryan also features a slider and a curveball in his repertoire.
The righty has made a slight grip adjustment with his slider since turning pro, “I’ve tweaked my slider a bit to turn it into more of a cutter/slutter instead of a bigger breaking ball,” explained Ryan. “I’ve seen a good amount of success with it.”
Pitching out of the bullpen in 2022; Ryan really likes his late inning work.
“I love the camaraderie,” said Ryan. “Hanging in the bullpen with the guys all game and then when your number gets called, everybody is hyping you up and you get to put up a zero and pass it to the next guy, or you get to close out the game. There’s always at least one high leverage situation too – so to be able to come in and close the door for your team is such a great feeling.”
Ryan pitched 19 2/3 innings among three levels in 2022; finishing the year with 17 K’s and a 7.8 K/9 ratio.
Be sure to follow Sam Ryan in 2023, as he showcases his off-season work with one of the Blue Jays’ affiliates.