Blue Jays News and Notes: Hyun-Jin Ryu, Shun Yamaguchi and more

A look at some of the latest Toronto Blue Jays news and notes including updates on Hyun-Jin Ryu, Shun Yamaguchi and more.

We are still in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic with no clear window on when the Blue Jays season will officially kick-off, however, we have a few news and notes surrounding the team.

Ryu Aka “The Korean Monster”

Hyun-Jin Ryu has remained in Dunedin during the stoppage rather than returning to Korea. The hurlers ace is also expecting their first child in the coming months and it was earlier reported that he may have Visa issues that may prevent him from returning home.

Daniel Kim recently tweeted out Ryu’s warm-up song for the upcoming season titled “Korean Monster”. The song was specifically written for the All-Star pitcher and will be a refreshing tune blasting through the Rogers Centre speakers. Have a listen below:

More from Toronto Blue Jays News

• Single-A Dunedin Blue Jays advance to the Championship Series
• Blue Jays: Comparisons for Alek Manoah’s Second Season
• Blue Jays: Adam Cimber, the unlikely decision King
• Toronto Blue Jays: Has the Shift Killed Kevin Gausman’s 2022 Cy Young Hopes?
• Blue Jays: What Yusei Kikuchi’s latest stumble should mean

Yamaguchi Returns To Toyko

Shun Yamaguchi returned to Toyko earlier this week according to General Manager Ross Atkins. Yamaguchi was one of the last three remaining players in Dunedin along with Ryu and Rafael Dolis.

Yamaguchi had a tough spring prior to the stoppage surrendering nine runs including five homers in four innings of Grapefruit League action. The transition from Japan to the majors could take some time for the 32-year old who will presumably end up in the bullpen.

Espinal Optioned But He Made Lasting Impression

Santiago Espinal was one of three players optioned to Triple-A earlier this week but he made quite the impression this spring. The 25-year old hit .417 with 10 hits including three home runs, three doubles, a triple and seven runs batted in.

The interesting thing about Espinal is that he is an infielder but unfortunately there is no room for his services on the current roster.

However, Espinal has played 12 minor-league games in centre field and could be a potential option. There has been no indication if the Jays will experiment with him in the outfield in Buffalo but it could be a fit considering the options on the current squad.

Classics And Rewinds

Sportsnet continues to air Blue Jays games from the past as they continue Rewind series today at 4 pm. Today’s game will feature the July 29th, 2015 contest versus the Philadelphia Phillies in which shortstop Troy Tulowitzki made his Blue Jays debut.

Tomorrow (March 29th) will feature the August 02nd, 2015 brawl versus the Kansas City Royals at 4 pm. Remember, old baseball is better than no baseball.