Blake Treinen Re-signs with the Dodgers
In a move that cements Blake Treinen's continued presence in Los Angeles, the Dodgers have re-signed the seasoned pitcher to a two-year contract worth $22 million. The announcement, made on a Tuesday, marks a significant commitment from both the player and the team, positioning Treinen to play a pivotal role in their bullpen strategy as he enters his 36-year-old season.
A Storied Career
Treinen's journey with the Dodgers extends over five eventful years, highlighting his enduring impact on the team. The right-hander has demonstrated exceptional skill on the mound, particularly during the 2024 MLB season, where he boasted a remarkable 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings. His performance was underscored by 56 strikeouts against just 11 unintentional walks, figures that underscore his critical role in the Dodgers' pitching staff.
Looking back to his earlier career highlights, Treinen's standout season with the Oakland Athletics in 2018 saw him record an impressive 38 saves and finish sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. Such achievements laid the foundation for his later successes and have contributed to his standing as a respected figure in Major League Baseball.
Overcoming Setbacks
Despite his accomplishments, Treinen has faced his share of challenges. A shoulder surgery sidelined him for most of the 2022-23 seasons, a period during which the team surely felt his absence. Additionally, a spring training accident left him with fractured ribs and a bruised lung, further testing his resilience.
However, Treinen's ability to rebound from these setbacks illustrates his tenacity and professionalism. In 2021, prior to these challenges, he managed a 1.99 ERA and a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio, figures that speak volumes about his consistency and skill.
Market Value and Impact
Heading into the offseason, Treinen was ranked as the No. 22 available free agent, a testament to his continued value in the league. With an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves over 549 ⅔ innings, his statistics reflect a career built on quality performances and reliability.
While some analysts speculated that Treinen might not replicate his 2021 effectiveness in the coming season, owing to the physical toll of past injuries and age, the Dodgers’ decision to lock him in for another two years speaks volumes about their belief in his capabilities. As one evaluation noted, "Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021." Yet, his proven track record and adaptability to overcome adversity make him an invaluable asset to the Dodgers’ roster.
The Road Ahead
As Treinen continues with the Dodgers, eyes will be on how he adapts and performs in the upcoming seasons. His journey exemplifies the resilience and determination required to excel at the highest levels of professional sports. With the backing of an established franchise and a supportive fan base, Treinen is poised to write new chapters in his MLB career, building on an already illustrious legacy.