Blake Treinen Re-Signs with Dodgers: A Look at His Journey and Impact
Blake Treinen Re-Signs with Dodgers: A Look at His Journey and Impact
The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured Blake Treinen for another two years, with a contract valued at $22 million. This announcement, made on a Tuesday, marks a significant commitment from the team to a player who has proven to be one of the most dependable arms in their bullpen. As Treinen enters his 36-year-old season, the Dodgers are betting on his track record and resilience in the face of adversity.
A Solid Performer
Treinen's performance in the 2024 MLB season was nothing short of stellar. He maintained an impressive 1.93 ERA over 46⅔ innings, demonstrating his skill and precision on the mound. Additionally, Treinen recorded 56 strikeouts against just 11 unintentional walks, reaffirming his prowess as a dominant force in the relief pitcher role.
The Dodgers have good reason to feel confident in Treinen's abilities, but his journey hasn't been without its hurdles. Treinen was sidelined for most of the 2022-23 seasons due to shoulder surgery, a setback that would have been challenging for any athlete. Despite this, his comeback has solidified his reputation as a player capable of high-level performance, regardless of past injuries.
A Career of Accomplishments
Treinen's tenure with the Dodgers dates back five years, during which time he has consistently contributed to the team's success. Before joining the Dodgers, Treinen made a significant impact with the Oakland Athletics. In 2018, he recorded 38 saves and placed sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting, showcasing his skill as a reliable closer and earning him recognition as one of the top players in the league.
Throughout his career, Treinen has amassed an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves across 549⅔ innings. His effectiveness as a pitcher is further evidenced by his 1.99 ERA and 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio posted in 2021, figures that highlight his ability to control games and consistently deliver under pressure.
Overcoming Setbacks
Treinen's journey has not been without its challenges. Apart from his shoulder surgery, he also faced a spring training mishap that resulted in fractured ribs and a bruised lung. These injuries could have derailed the careers of many athletes, yet Treinen has repeatedly demonstrated resilience and determination.
Despite his injuries and the natural decline that might be expected with age, Treinen continues to defy expectations. As one analysis observed, "Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021." However, his continued strong performance indicates that he remains a critical asset to the Dodgers.
The Road Ahead
Treinen was ranked as the No. 22 available free agent earlier in the offseason, a testament to his value in the league. His re-signing with the Dodgers reflects the team's belief in his continued ability to perform at a high level. With his proven track record and the determination he has shown throughout his career, Treinen's future with the Dodgers looks promising.
As he prepares to contribute to the Dodgers’ bullpen once again, Treinen's story is one of overcoming obstacles, dedication to his craft, and maintaining peak performance in one of the most demanding sports. Fans and analysts alike will undoubtedly watch closely as Treinen seeks to add even more achievements to his already impressive career.
