Blake Treinen's Return to Dodgers Begins a New Chapter
Blake Treinen's Return to Dodgers Begins a New Chapter
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a decisive move to bolster their bullpen by re-signing veteran pitcher Blake Treinen. The right-handed reliever, who has been an integral part of the team's pitching arsenal, inked a two-year deal with the Dodgers valued at $22 million, as announced on a recent Tuesday. This decision not only strengthens their pitching staff but also reflects the Dodgers' confidence in Treinen's proven prowess and resilience.
Treinen, entering his 36-year-old season, has a storied history with the Dodgers, having spent five years with the club. Known for his formidable pitching skills, he was instrumental during the 2024 MLB season, posting an impressive 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings. His performance included 56 strikeouts against just 11 unintentional walks, underscoring his ability to control the game and outmaneuver hitters with precision.
The re-signing is significant, especially considering Treinen’s journey over the past few years. He faced a major setback following shoulder surgery that kept him sidelined for most of the 2022-23 seasons. Despite this, his comeback in 2024 was nothing short of remarkable, reviving memories of his previous standout performances. In 2021, Treinen had delivered a sterling 1.99 ERA and maintained a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio, metrics that highlighted his reliability and value as a reliever.
However, Treinen’s career has not been without its challenges. A spring training mishap left him with fractured ribs and a bruised lung, adding another hurdle to his journey. Yet, his ability to bounce back from such adversities has been commendable and speaks volumes about his determination and professionalism.
Prior to his tenure with the Dodgers, Treinen was a force to be reckoned with at the Oakland Athletics, where he achieved 38 saves in 2018 and finished sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. His journey to the Dodgers marked a significant chapter, and his impact has been considerable ever since.
Analyzing Treinen’s skills, it’s clear he remains a valuable asset. With an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves across 549 ⅔ innings throughout his career, Treinen ranks as a vital player in any bullpen. This off-season, he was considered the No. 22 available free agent, highlighting the strategic importance of the Dodgers' decision to retain him.
The uncertainty that hovered over his 2024 season—given his prior injuries and age—was captured in the analysis, “Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021.” His performance countered these expectations, affirming that he still possesses the tenacity and skillset to excel on the mound.
As the Dodgers gear up for a new season, Treinen's re-signing not only brings experience and skill back into their roster but also signifies stability in what has often been a fluctuating bullpen. His return is set to add depth, and his leadership and expertise are expected to mentor younger pitchers on the team's roster.
In conclusion, Blake Treinen's commitment to the Dodgers marks a reaffirmation of mutual trust and ambition. As he approaches the twilight of his career, Treinen remains poised to leave an indelible mark on the game, guiding the Dodgers through yet another promising season with his unwavering dedication and exceptional skill.
