Now healthy, River Ryan 'just felt free and had fun' in Tigers debut

River Ryan, the newest right-hander for the Detroit Tigers, made a triumphant return to the major leagues after a lengthy injury saga. On his first day with the team, Ryan met his coaches and teammates, and upon his MLB debut against the Washington Nationals on September 21, he commented on the relief he felt. "It kind of felt like everything I have been through this year, kind of was all coming to fruition. I just felt free and had fun," Ryan said.

The 28-year-old Ryan had been sidelined for two years due to Tommy John surgery, followed by hamstring injuries that kept him on the minor-league injured list. During his recovery, the Dodgers dealt Ryan to the Tigers in a three-prospect trade, which allowed Ryan to regain his strength. Ryan's first start for the Tigers was a success, as he struck out three batters in three innings and generated six whiffs, showcasing his talent and earning high praise from Tigers manager A.J.

Hinch. Ryan expressed his excitement about the opportunity at the big-league level, stating that Detroit provides him with more runway to develop as a starter.