Blake Treinen Re-signs with Dodgers: A New Chapter in Los Angeles
As the offseason dust continues to settle, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant move by re-signing Blake Treinen, ensuring the veteran right-hander remains a crucial part of their bullpen. The two-year contract, worth $22 million, was officially announced on a Tuesday, affirming the club's confidence in Treinen's ability to rebound and deliver on the mound. This decision marks an important chapter not only for the Dodgers but also for Treinen as he embarks on his 36-year-old season.
Treinen’s Journey: Past Challenges and Future Potential
Treinen's journey back to a major league mound has been fraught with obstacles. Most notably, he underwent shoulder surgery which sidelined him for most of the 2022-23 seasons. He further endured a worrisome spring training mishap involving fractured ribs and a bruised lung. Yet, despite these setbacks, Treinen's resilience has been unwavering as he looks to regain his form and effectiveness with the Dodgers.
Reflecting on his past performances, Treinen has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career. In 2018, while pitching for the Oakland Athletics, he recorded 38 saves—an achievement that helped him finish sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. His dominant 2021 season bolstered his reputation, posting a 1.99 ERA and showcasing his capability with a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio. An ERA+ of 149 and 80 career saves across 549 ⅔ innings underline Treinen's knack for handling high-pressure situations.
A Strong 2024 Season Amid Uncertainty
During the 2024 MLB season, Treinen demonstrated he still had plenty left in the tank. His performance was characterized by a strong 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings, complemented by an impressive 56 strikeouts against just 11 unintentional walks. This resurgence showed that despite concerns, his skill set remains formidable. A poignant analysis heading into the year aptly noted, "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 managed to defy the odds and exceed expectations.
Treinen’s Role in the Dodgers’ Future Plans
Treinen has been with the Dodgers for five years, a tenure that has seen its shares of highs and lows. His decision to re-sign with the Dodgers not only brings stability to their bullpen but also highlights the trust the organization places in his abilities moving forward. Ranked as the No. 22 available free agent earlier in the offseason, Treinen's decision to stay with Los Angeles underscores their mutual interest in achieving success together.
The Dodgers are keen on leveraging Treinen's experience as they continue their quest for championship glory. His veteran presence in the bullpen will be crucial, especially as they navigate the pressures of a competitive National League landscape. For Treinen, the upcoming seasons serve as an opportunity to cement his legacy with a franchise that has stood by him through adversity.
Looking Ahead
As Treinen heads into this new phase of his career, both he and the Dodgers will be hoping that his health holds up and that he can maintain the stellar form he displayed in 2024. The Dodgers’ decision to reinvest in Treinen demonstrates their belief in his enduring capabilities and their desire to keep a seasoned anchor in their pitching staff.
In an era when teams often seek younger talent, the Dodgers’ move to secure Treinen reflects a strategic approach, valuing experience and tenacity. His journey, marked by resilience and a remarkable ability to bounce back, continues to inspire those around him. For Treinen, the 2025 MLB season will be another opportunity to prove that while age may be just a number, determination, and talent remain timeless assets to any ball club.