Blake Treinen Returns to the Dodgers on a Two-Year Deal
In a significant move that underscores the Los Angeles Dodgers' commitment to fortifying their bullpen, Blake Treinen has re-signed with the team on a lucrative two-year contract worth $22 million. The announcement came on a Tuesday, marking the continuation of a partnership that has seen Treinen play a pivotal role in the Dodgers' recent successes.
A Veteran's Comeback
As Treinen enters his 36-year-old season, the commitment to bringing him back reflects not just his past contributions, but the Dodgers' belief in his ability to regain the form that has made him one of the most effective relievers in recent years. During the 2024 MLB season, Treinen posted an impressive 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings, registering 56 strikeouts against just 11 unintentional walks. This performance was all the more remarkable given his previous shoulder surgery that sidelined him for most of the 2022-23 season, a testament to his resilience and skill.
A Storied Career
Treinen's journey with the Dodgers began five years ago, during which he has become a staple in their bullpen. He first made his mark with the Oakland Athletics in 2018, recording 38 saves and finishing sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. His performance that year highlighted his ability to close games with authority, a skill he continued to hone with the Dodgers. Across his career, Treinen has achieved an ERA+ of 149 and amassed 80 saves in 549 ⅔ innings, showcasing his reliability and effectiveness over the long haul.
Challenges and Resilience
The road back to the mound has not been without its challenges for Treinen. Beyond his shoulder issues, a spring training mishap led to fractured ribs and a bruised lung. Despite these setbacks, Treinen's return to form in 2024 silenced any doubts about his capabilities. As one analyst noted, "Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021." Yet, he defied these expectations, demonstrating the kind of tenacity that makes him a valuable asset for any team.
Looking Ahead
With his re-signing, Treinen will continue to bring his experience and leadership to the Dodgers' bullpen, providing a steady hand in high-pressure situations. His success in both closing and setup roles adds a layer of depth to the pitching staff that could prove invaluable as they aim for another championship run. Treinen's ability to adapt and overcome injuries while maintaining elite performance levels is precisely what the Dodgers need as they strategize for the seasons ahead.
Ranked as the No. 22 available free agent earlier in the offseason, Treinen's decision to stay with Los Angeles instead of exploring other opportunities speaks volumes about his connection with the team and his confidence in their future. For the Dodgers and their fans, his return is not just an investment in talent, but a continuation of a mutually beneficial relationship built on shared aspirations of success.
The Dodgers' front office, players, and fans alike will be eager to see Treinen back in action, confident that his presence in the bullpen will bring stability and success. As the countdown to the new season begins, all eyes will be on Treinen to once again prove why he's considered one of the best in the business.