Blake Treinen, a skilled right-handed reliever, has officially recommitted to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Demonstrating their faith in his abilities, the Dodgers have signed Treinen to a two-year deal worth $22 million, an announcement that was made public on a recent Tuesday. As Treinen looks ahead to his 36-year-old season, this contract marks yet another chapter in his noteworthy career.
Consistent Performance and Recent Challenges
Treinen's track record demonstrates a reliable presence on the mound, particularly evident during the 2024 MLB season when he maintained a 1.93 ERA over 46⅔ innings. His proficiency resulted in 56 strikeouts against a mere 11 unintentional walks. Despite entering the upcoming season at an age when many players begin to face declines, Treinen remains a formidable force in the bullpen.
The journey, however, has not been without challenges. A significant hurdle presented itself when Treinen underwent shoulder surgery, sidelining him for most of the 2022-23 seasons. Additionally, a spring training mishap left him dealing with fractured ribs and a bruised lung. Yet, these setbacks have only underscored his resilience and determination to return to top form.
Past Achievements and Current Reputation
Treinen has been an integral part of the Dodgers for five years, solidifying his place in the team's bullpen. His career has also been punctuated by noteworthy achievements prior to joining the Dodgers. In 2018, while with the Oakland Athletics, he impressively recorded 38 saves and finished sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. Such accolades highlight a career characterized by remarkable consistency and skill.
Entering this offseason, Treinen was ranked as the No. 22 available free agent, reflecting his standing in the league. His career statistics, including an impressive ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves across 549⅔ innings, further endorse his enduring capability as a top-tier reliever.
Looking Ahead
While some analysts speculated that Treinen might not replicate his 2021 performance moving forward, his recent output suggests otherwise. In 2021, he showcased a formidable 1.99 ERA and maintained a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio, proving his mettle and adaptability. The Dodgers' investment indicates their confidence that Treinen can continue to deliver results in crucial moments, affirming his value to the team.
As Treinen prepares for the new season, the Dodgers and their fans look forward to seeing him bring his experience and skill to the mound once more. His journey, marked by persistence and excellence, inspires optimism that he will continue to be a vital asset in the Dodgers' pursuit of success.