Blake Treinen Re-Signs with Dodgers on Lucrative Two-Year Deal
The Los Angeles Dodgers have reinforced their pitching strength by re-signing one of their linchpin talents, Blake Treinen, to a noteworthy two-year contract valued at $22 million. The announcement, which generated considerable buzz among the team’s supporters, was made on a Tuesday as Treinen, an instrumental figure in the bullpen, enters his 36-year-old season.
A Valuable Asset Returns
Treinen's latest commitment continues his tenure with the Dodgers, which has now spanned five productive years. Despite entering the latter stages of his career, the veteran pitcher’s 2024 MLB season served as a testament to his enduring quality. He dominated with a commendable 1.93 ERA over 46 ⅔ innings, emphasizing his pivotal role within the team’s lineup. Notably, Treinen struck out 56 batters while allowing only 11 unintentional walks, further evidence of his impressive control and precision on the mound.
Treinen's return to form follows a challenging period. He underwent shoulder surgery that benched him for the majority of the 2022-23 season. Moreover, a spring training mishap resulted in fractured ribs and a bruised lung, adding to his physical adversities. Despite these setbacks, Treinen’s resilience and determination have more than justified the Dodgers’ renewed investment.
Impressive Track Record
The pitcher’s track record is filled with highlights that speak volumes about his capability. In 2021, Treinen posted a solid 1.99 ERA complemented by a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio, setting high expectations for his ensuing performances. His prowess was earlier on display in 2018, during his stint with the Oakland Athletics, where he recorded 38 saves and finished sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting.
Throughout his career, Treinen has accumulated an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves across an impressive 549 ⅔ innings. These statistics underline his exceptional ability to maintain an edge over his opponents and contribute significantly to his teams’ success.
Market Valuation and Future Prospects
Coming into the offseason, Treinen was ranked as the No. 22 available free agent, indicating his high market value among potential suitors. As teams evaluated their options for bolstering their bullpens, the Dodgers decisively secured Treinen’s services, ensuring continuity and stability in their pitching roster.
“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 prior to the season. Yet, his performance in 2024 defied these expectations and reinforced his status as a pivotal asset to the Dodgers.
The re-signing of Blake Treinen provides the Dodgers not only with a seasoned professional who brings a wealth of experience but also with a rejuvenated athlete poised to make a substantive impact. Both the team and its fans will undoubtedly hope that Treinen’s latest chapter with the Dodgers is marked by continued success and invaluable contributions on and off the field.