Dodgers' River Ryan Adds 30 Pounds of Muscle, Sees Velocity Boost

The 27-year-old is looking to make an impact in 2026 after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2024.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher River Ryan has undergone a physical transformation, adding 30 pounds of muscle to his 6'2" frame over the past five months. Ryan, who made his MLB debut in 2024 but then underwent Tommy John surgery, is now hovering around 225 pounds and has seen a boost in his velocity as a result of the added muscle. The young starter is excited to participate in Major League camp this spring and contribute to the Dodgers' rotation.

Why it matters

Ryan's physical transformation and velocity increase could be a major boost for the Dodgers, who are looking to solidify their starting rotation ahead of the 2026 season. The team did not make any additions to the rotation this offseason, so Ryan's development could be crucial in providing depth and competition.

The details

Ryan, 27, added the 30 pounds of muscle through a rigorous diet and weight-lifting regimen over the past five months. He was previously around 195 pounds before the transformation. The added muscle has allowed Ryan to throw harder with less effort, with the right-hander now able to consistently hit the upper-90s on the radar gun. Ryan also shared that he had to scale back his weight-lifting at one point, as he was squatting close to 500 pounds, which was taking a toll on his body.

  • River Ryan made his MLB debut for the Dodgers in 2024.
  • Ryan underwent Tommy John surgery after just four starts in 2024.
  • Ryan has been rehabbing over the past two years and is now ready to participate in Major League camp in 2026.

The players

River Ryan

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization who is looking to make an impact in 2026 after adding 30 pounds of muscle to his frame.

Ryder Ryan

River Ryan's brother, who the Dodgers signed to a Minor League contract with a non-roster invite to big league camp, and the team plans to stretch him out as a starting pitcher.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I've been chomping at the bit to get back out there and actually participate in Major League camp. The last two years I was there, I've been injured and haven't been able to participate. I'm really excited to get out there.”

— River Ryan (SI.com)

“It was just really cool to dive into my health a little bit and put some weight on. Before I got hurt, I think I was 195 pounds, and now I'm hovering around 225. That's helped a lot. The rehab process was a big learning curve as far as putting time into my body and developing a really good routine for me to go out there and perform.”

— River Ryan (SI.com)

What’s next

The Dodgers will be closely monitoring River Ryan's progress and performance during Spring Training as they look to solidify their starting rotation for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

River Ryan's physical transformation and velocity increase could be a major boost for the Dodgers, who are looking to build depth in their starting rotation. The young right-hander's dedication to his rehab and development has put him in a position to potentially make a significant impact for the team in 2026.