On a significant Wednesday afternoon, the Arizona Diamondbacks celebrated a milestone as Eduardo Rodriguez made his long-awaited debut. Rodriguez, who had been on the sidelines since spring training due to a shoulder injury initially described as a cramp, finally took the mound in the second game of Arizona's doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians.
Rodriguez's debut had been highly anticipated since he signed a four-year, $80 million contract in December. The injury forced him into a four-month recovery period without any minor league rehab starts, during which he faced minor leaguers in simulated games at the team's spring training complex.
Rodriguez's Return to the Mound
In his debut, Rodriguez pitched 5 2/3 innings, holding the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks. Displaying efficiency, he required only 65 pitches to complete his outing. Despite his velocity being lower than what he exhibited during his 2023 tenure with the Detroit Tigers, Rodriguez showcased his skills and resilience, embodying the determination that has defined his career.
"I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," Rodriguez said, reflecting on his return. "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."
The Diamondbacks emerged victorious with a 5-3 win over the Guardians, improving their record to 63-52 for the season. This victory was part of an impressive run, with the team having won 18 of their last 23 games, placing them 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead at the time, pending the outcome of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game.
Guardians Struggle Continues
Conversely, the loss extended the Cleveland Guardians' season-high losing streak to five consecutive games. Before this slump, the Guardians had not lost more than three consecutive games. The team's previous stronghold on the AL Central has loosened, with their lead shrinking to 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin since June 8.
The Diamondbacks have relied on 13 different starting pitchers this season, highlighting the significance of Rodriguez's return to the rotation. His addition brings not only depth but also experience, as evidenced by his 2023 season with the Tigers, where he made 26 starts, threw 131 1/3 innings, and achieved a 3.30 ERA.
Season and Personal Moves
Eduardo Rodriguez's journey to Arizona was marked by notable decisions. He opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers and famously used his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. These moves underscored his desire to find the right fit, which he appears to have found with the Diamondbacks.
The Diamondbacks' commitment to Rodriguez was evident in their patience through his recovery process. Rodriguez didn't rush his return, ensuring he was fully prepared to contribute at a high level. The team's strategy paid off with a successful debut that boosts their postseason aspirations.
In contrast, another Diamondback pitcher, Kelly, made his return in a rehab start on Tuesday. The team's strategic management of their pitching roster is crucial as they navigate the remainder of the season, striving to capitalize on their current momentum.
As the regular season progresses, the Diamondbacks are poised to make a formidable push towards the postseason, fueled by the return of key players like Rodriguez. His performance against the Guardians provided a glimpse of his potential impact, solidifying his role as a pivotal asset in the Diamondbacks' pitching arsenal.
With each game, the dynamics of the NL West and AL Central continue to evolve, setting the stage for an exciting climax to the season. The Diamondbacks' resurgence and the Guardians' quest to regain their footing will be storylines to watch closely, with Rodriguez's journey serving as an inspiring chapter in Arizona's 2024 campaign.