MLB Rumors: Dodgers may get Hyun-Jin Ryu back soon, Paul Maholm to bullpen

The Los Angeles Dodgers starting rotation, which looked to be one of the best in baseball before the season began, may finally be coming together in full soon.

According to ESPN.com, Hyun-Jin Ryu may be on his way back to the rotation sooner than expected, which would make fifth starter Paul Maholm a candidate for a move to the bullpen.

Ryu has been dealing with shoulder inflammation and hasn’t pitched since April, but was reportedly feeling good after throwing four simulated innings. The Dodgers just got ace Clayton Kershaw back from a stint on the disabled list, so the return of Ryu would be a terrific shot in the arm for the pitching staff.

Maholm, on the other hand, has had his struggles lately, giving up 10 runs (5 earned) in his last start against Miami.

Dodgers’ manager Don Mattingly has even suggested that Ryu return to the rotation next week without any minor league rehab starts, which would have him on the hill to face the New York Mets next Wednesday.

“We’re pretty confident. His pen the other day was just ridiculous for a guy who hadn’t thrown the ball in 10 days,” manager Don Mattingly said. “He throws the ball wherever he wants. So, again, we’ll just see where he’s at [Saturday] as far as the way he feels. Everybody liked the way he threw the ball.”