Blake Treinen Re-signs with Dodgers: A Closer Look at His Return
Blake Treinen Re-signs with Dodgers: A Closer Look at His Return
The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured the services of right-handed pitcher Blake Treinen for another two years, a move that was officially announced on Tuesday. The contract, valued at $22 million, underscores the Dodgers' commitment to maintaining a strong bullpen, betting on Treinen's experience and past contributions to the team's success.
This development comes as Treinen, now entering his 36-year-old season, looks to build on an impressive 2024 MLB season. Despite his age, he managed to post a remarkable 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings, striking out 56 batters while allowing only 11 unintentional walks. Such performance metrics reinforce the Dodgers' decision to retain him amidst a landscape of free agents.
A Career Marked by Highs and Challenges
Treinen's journey with the Dodgers spans five years, during which time he has been a pivotal part of their pitching staff. His trajectory in Major League Baseball has been notable, especially his standout 2018 season with the Oakland Athletics where he notched 38 saves and finished sixth in the American League Cy Young voting. These achievements have cemented his reputation as a reliable closer when healthy.
However, Treinen's career has not been without setbacks. A shoulder surgery kept him out for much of the 2022-23 seasons, a period marked by rehabilitation and recovery. Moreover, a mishap during spring training left him with fractured ribs and a bruised lung, further compounding his time on the injured list. Despite these challenges, Treinen’s capability to comeback is exemplified by his consistent performance once back on the mound.
Analyzing Treinen's Recent Performance
For the Dodgers, the decision to re-sign Treinen was informed by his resilience and adaptability, qualities that have defined his contributions in recent years. In 2021, he delivered an ERA of 1.99 alongside a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio, stats indicating the level of competence he brings to the bullpen.
Yet, there were concerns about whether Treinen could replicate this success. As noted in an analysis at the start of the year, "Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021." Nevertheless, Treinen defied these expectations with commendable performances throughout the 2024 season, proving that age and previous injuries hadn't eroded his skill or determination.
Looking Ahead
As Blake Treinen prepares for the upcoming seasons with the Dodgers, the organization and fans alike have reason to be optimistic. His 549 ⅔ career innings, yielding an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves, are a testament to his enduring impact on the mound. Despite being ranked as the No. 22 available free agent earlier in the offseason, this contract ensures that his veteran presence and tactical prowess remain with the Dodgers, fortifying their pitching lineup.
While the future always holds uncertainties, especially in professional sports, Treinen's re-signing is a calculated risk favoring continuity and proven skill. As the Dodgers aim for further successes in the league, Blake Treinen stands ready to contribute significantly to their quest.
