Blake Treinen Re-Signs with Dodgers: A Return to the Mound
Blake Treinen, one of the most reliable arms in the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen, is set to don Dodger blue for another two seasons. With a two-year contract worth $22 million, Treinen and the Dodgers are reaffirming a partnership that has proven mutually beneficial over the past five years. The announcement of his re-signing came on a quiet Tuesday, yet it echoed loudly across the MLB landscape as the Dodgers secured the services of the veteran pitcher for the foreseeable future.
A Veteran's Resilience
Entering his 36-year-old season, Treinen’s career remains a testament to resilience and skill. Despite experiencing setbacks that would have derailed many players, Treinen has consistently demonstrated his capability to return to form. In particular, his performance during the 2024 MLB season was nothing short of spectacular, boasting a 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings. Adding to his impressive innings work were 56 strikeouts, starkly countered by just 11 unintentional walks.
Treinen's journey has not been without its challenges. His recent years have been marked by a series of injuries, including a shoulder surgery that sidelined him for much of the 2022-23 seasons. Further complicating his path was a mishap during spring training where Treinen suffered fractured ribs and a bruised lung. Yet his return to form in 2024 underscores a steadfast dedication to his craft.
The Road Back
The veteran's ability to overcome adversity is not lost on analysts and fans alike. Treinen, who ranks as the No. 22 available free agent earlier this offseason, has continually proven that he can rebound from injury setbacks. His ERA+ of 149, coupled with 80 career saves across 549 ⅔ innings, highlights his sustained excellence on the mound.
Notably, Treinen's 2021 season showcased similar dominance, posting a 1.99 ERA alongside a solid 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio. These statistics seem to paint the picture of a pitcher who, despite the passage of time and the wear of professional play, remains a formidable presence in the bullpen.
Past Achievements and Future Anticipations
Blake Treinen's past achievements add to his value and reputation within MLB circles. In 2018, he was instrumental in the Oakland Athletics' efforts by recording 38 saves—a feat that earned him a sixth-place finish in the American League Cy Young balloting. Such accolades reinforce Treinen’s standing as a pitcher of elite caliber.
As he returns to the Dodgers, questions abound regarding his potential impact for the new season. According to an unnamed analyst, "Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021." However, Treinen's ability to defy expectations time and again offers hope to the Dodgers faithful that he can continue to deliver exceptional performances.
The Dodgers' Investment
By securing Treinen for an additional two years, the Dodgers demonstrate their confidence in his abilities and their commitment to bolstering an already impressive pitching roster. The investment is a calculated move, ensuring that their bullpen maintains depth and experience.
Fans of the Dodgers eagerly anticipate what the coming seasons will hold with Treinen back in the mix. His proven track record and veteran leadership are invaluable assets to a team consistently in the hunt for championships. As the 2024 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Blake Treinen, waiting to see how this next chapter in his storied career will be written.