Treinen Re-Signs with Dodgers: A Key Move for the Team's Bullpen
The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured a vital component of their bullpen, re-signing Blake Treinen to a two-year contract worth $22 million. Announced on Tuesday, this deal keeps the seasoned pitcher with the Dodgers as he enters his 36-year-old season, marking a significant move for both Treinen and the organization.
A Veteran Presence
Treinen, who has been a staple in the Dodgers' bullpen for five years, is poised to bring his wealth of experience and talent back to the mound. His tenure with the Dodgers has been marked by impressive performances, despite facing challenges along the way. Following his shoulder surgery that sidelined him for much of the 2022-23 season, Treinen's return represents a significant boost. During his last active MLB season in 2024, Treinen managed a stellar 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings, recording 56 strikeouts against 11 unintentional walks, demonstrating his capability to perform at an elite level.
A Storied Career
Blake Treinen's impact on the game extends beyond his time with the Dodgers. In 2018, while playing for the Oakland Athletics, Treinen recorded 38 saves and finished sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. These achievements underscore his prowess as a closer and affirm his reputation as a reliable pitcher. His career statistics further echo this sentiment, with an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves across 549 ⅔ innings, making him a formidable presence on the mound.
Challenges and Comebacks
Treinen's journey has not been without its obstacles. In addition to his shoulder surgery, he faced a setback during a spring training mishap that resulted in fractured ribs and a bruised lung. These injuries have tested his resilience, yet his determination to overcome these physical challenges has been evident in his performances. Despite these difficulties, analysing his prior performances, there was an expectation that Treinen might not replicate his 2021 form, where he posted a 1.99 ERA along with a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio. However, Treinen continued to defy expectations with his continued excellence.
The Contract's Implications
Re-signing Treinen is a strategic move for the Dodgers, reinforcing their bullpen with a pitcher who offers both experience and skill. Earlier this offseason, Treinen was ranked as the No. 22 available free agent, highlighting his value in the market. Locking in Treinen for another two years provides stability and depth for the Dodgers as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.
As Treinen prepares to return to the Dodgers' bullpen, the team and its fans can look forward to having one of the league's proven talents back in action. His track record of success and his ability to overcome adversity make Treinen a crucial asset to the Dodgers, and his re-signing is a testament to the team's commitment to maintaining their competitive edge. With Treinen's future secured, both player and club can concentrate on making an impact in the seasons to come.