Blake Treinen Re-Signs with the Los Angeles Dodgers: A Closer Look
Blake Treinen Re-Signs with the Los Angeles Dodgers: A Closer Look
In a move that affirms their faith in Blake Treinen's recovery and potential impact, the Los Angeles Dodgers have re-signed the seasoned pitcher to a two-year, $22 million contract. Announced on a Tuesday, this deal not only secures a key player for the team's bullpen but also serves as a testament to Treinen’s resilience and potential to remain a critical figure on the mound.
At 36, Treinen is approaching a new chapter in his storied career, one that has been marked by remarkable comebacks and impressive performances. The right-hander, who is entering his sixth year with the Dodgers, posted a stellar 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings during the 2024 MLB season. His statistical prowess during this period, which included 56 strikeouts against just 11 unintentional walks, underscores his continued ability to dominate opposing hitters.
A Rollercoaster Career
Blake Treinen’s journey in the major leagues has been anything but conventional. Originally making his mark with the Oakland Athletics, Treinen enjoyed a career-defining season in 2018, where he notched 38 saves and finished sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. His performance that year was a defining moment, establishing him as one of the premier closers in the game.
However, the path has not been without its hurdles. Treinen's career faced a major setback due to shoulder surgery that kept him largely off the field during the 2022-23 seasons. Adding to these challenges, a spring training mishap resulted in fractured ribs and a bruised lung, further testing his resilience. Despite these challenges, Treinen's resolve has remained unshaken, and his comeback in the 2024 season proved his enduring value.
The Dodgers' Calculated Bet
While some might question the decision to offer a two-year deal to a pitcher recovering from surgery and nearing the backend of his career, the Dodgers see this as a calculated investment. Treinen's 2024 season performance indicated that he still commands impressive power and precision. Furthermore, his previous record, including a 1.99 ERA and a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 2021, adds confidence to the organization's decision.
“Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021,” analysts noted. Yet, Treinen dispelled these concerns by proving his mettle on the mound, continuing to be a stabilizing force in the Dodgers’ bullpen.
Looking Ahead
Ranked as the No. 22 available free agent earlier in the offseason, Treinen's signing is a strategic move for the Dodgers, as they aim to bolster their roster with proven talents. With an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves over 549 ⅔ innings in his career, Treinen’s numbers speak volumes of his capability and experience.
Blake Treinen’s journey with the Dodgers, marked by significant achievements and notable setbacks, now enters a promising new phase. As he dons the Dodgers jersey for yet another two years, fans and the baseball community alike will watch keenly to see how his experience and tenacity will influence the team’s fortunes in the coming seasons.
Amidst this backdrop, Treinen’s story is not just of numbers and statistics but one of determination, resilience, and the unwavering belief in one’s abilities.
