On a sun-soaked Wednesday afternoon, the Arizona Diamondbacks celebrated a significant milestone with the return of Eduardo Rodriguez to the mound. After an extended hiatus due to a shoulder injury that had sidelined him since spring training, Rodriguez's performance was eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.
The 30-year-old left-hander made his debut in the second game of the Diamondbacks' doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians, a matchup that ended in a 5-3 victory for the Arizona squad. This win not only buoyed the team’s spirits but also improved their record to an impressive 63-52 for the season.
Rodriguez's journey to this point has been anything but smooth. His injury was initially described as a cramp in his back near his shoulder but eventually led to a prolonged recovery period. Despite a four-month hiatus, Rodriguez did not engage in any minor-league rehab starts. Instead, he faced minor leaguers in simulated games at the team’s spring training complex, a setup that evidently prepared him well for his return to Major League action.
Rodriguez's Performance
In his 2024 debut, Rodriguez contained the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings with remarkable efficiency. He needed only 65 pitches to complete his outing, a testament to both his skill and the meticulous preparation undertaken during his recovery.
“I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push,” Rodriguez said. “That's what we're really looking for and what I've prepared myself to go out there and do: help my team to go to the postseason again.”
However, it was noted that Rodriguez’s velocity was down compared to his 2023 performance with the Detroit Tigers. The previous season saw him make 26 starts, amassing 131 1/3 innings with a respectable 3.30 ERA. Despite the dip in velocity, his command and control looked to be in fine form, reassuring fans and coaching staff alike.
Diamondbacks' Standings
The victory against the Guardians was part of a doubleheader sweep, which further solidified Arizona's position in the standings. The Diamondbacks have won 18 out of their last 23 games and are now just 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead, pending the outcome of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game.
Rodriguez's performance is especially significant given the Diamondbacks' pitching difficulties this season. Arizona has utilized 13 different starting pitchers, a figure that underscores the challenges faced by the team’s rotation. With Rodriguez back in the fold, the pitching staff gains a level of stability that could prove crucial in the coming weeks.
Guardians' Struggles
On the flip side, the Cleveland Guardians are grappling with their longest losing streak of the season, having dropped five consecutive games. Before this stretch, they had not lost more than three games in a row. The slump has narrowed their AL Central lead to 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin they've held since June 8.
Rodriguez, who signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the Diamondbacks in December, opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers. Additionally, he used his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season, indicating his preference for a fresh start with Arizona.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, Rodriguez’s return comes at a pivotal moment for the Diamondbacks. His ability to deliver quality starts will be paramount as Arizona eyes a postseason berth. Meanwhile, the Guardians will need to rally to protect their diminishing lead in the AL Central.
In the broader context, Rodriguez's return is not just a personal triumph but a potential game-changer for both the team and its ambitions. As he continues to regain his form, the Diamondbacks can look forward to a bolstered rotation and the prospect of a thrilling end to the season.