Blake Treinen Re-Signs with the Dodgers: A Veteran Closer's Commitment to Stay
In a significant offseason move, the Los Angeles Dodgers have secured the services of veteran relief pitcher Blake Treinen for the next two years in a deal worth $22 million. The announcement came on a Tuesday, marking a key retention for a franchise that has consistently been in pursuit of excellence.
Treinen, who is preparing to enter his 36-year-old season, has been with the Dodgers for five years, contributing both experience and skill to the bullpen. His commitment to the team reflects a deep-rooted bond that he has nurtured since joining. "Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021," noted analysts earlier this year. However, Treinen's recent performances seem to defy such expectations.
Impressive Performance Amid Challenges
Despite a challenging period marked by injuries, including shoulder surgery that sidelined him for most of the 2022-23 seasons and a spring training incident that left him with fractured ribs and a bruised lung, Treinen has proven to be exceptionally resilient. During the 2024 MLB season, he recorded a stellar 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings, striking out 56 batters against just 11 unintentional walks. These statistics are a testament to his prowess on the mound and his capacity to bounce back from setbacks.
Treinen's overall career with the Dodgers has solidified his status as a key player within the team. With an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves across 549 ⅔ innings, his performance has been consistently dependable. Such numbers underscore why he was considered the No. 22 available free agent earlier in the offseason—a testament to his valued skills on the free-agent market.
A Look Back at a Remarkable Career
Before his tenure with the Dodgers, Treinen showcased his abilities with the Oakland Athletics. In 2018, he recorded an impressive 38 saves, earning him sixth place in the American League Cy Young balloting. That year marked one of his career highlights, setting a standard that he continues to aspire towards even as he approaches his late 30s.
Treinen's journey is characterized by both his highs and the setbacks he has overcome. The 2021 season saw him post a 1.99 ERA with a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio, performances that reinforced his reputation as a formidable closer.
A Promising Future with the Dodgers
The decision to re-sign Treinen signifies the Dodgers' confidence in his ability to continue delivering exceptional performances. For the team, retaining experienced players like Treinen is crucial as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the league. Treinen's presence in the bullpen not only adds depth but also serves as a strategic asset, offering leadership to younger players aspiring to make their mark.
Treinen's enduring commitment to the Dodgers not only assures fans of continued success but also serves as a reminder of his dedication to excellence and his unwavering resolve to contribute to the team’s objectives. As the Dodgers look forward to the upcoming seasons, Treinen's role will undoubtedly be pivotal in their pursuit of championship glory.
For Blake Treinen, the journey with the Dodgers continues with renewed vigour, a testament to a career underpinned by talent, perseverance, and a shared vision of success. As we anticipate the forthcoming seasons, both fans and analysts will be watching closely as Treinen adds new chapters to his esteemed career.