Blake Treinen Returns to Dodgers with Two-Year Deal

Blake Treinen Returns to Dodgers with Two-Year Deal

Blake Treinen has re-signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, securing a two-year contract worth $22 million. This announcement, made on a Tuesday, marks a significant moment for both Treinen and the Dodgers as they look to solidify their bullpen with an experienced and proven reliever. Treinen, who is entering his 36-year-old season, has been a critical component for the Dodgers over the past five years. Known for his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, Treinen's performance during the 2024 MLB season was remarkable. He finished the season with a standout 1.93 ERA over 46 and ⅔ innings, showcasing his consistency and control by recording 56 strikeouts against just 11 unintentional walks. Despite expectations that his effectiveness might wane after several seasons in the league, "Coming into the year, it was reasonable to think that Treinen wouldn't be as effective this season as he was in 2021," as noted by analysts. However, Treinen defied those predictions, continuing to demonstrate his exceptional skills and resilience on the mound.

A Legacy of Excellence

Treinen's career has been marked by numerous highlights, most notably his 2018 season with the Oakland Athletics. During that year, he recorded an impressive 38 saves and finished sixth in the American League Cy Young balloting. His prowess as a closer was undeniable, cementing his status as one of the top relievers in the league. With an ERA+ of 149 and 80 saves across 549 and ⅔ innings, Treinen's stats speak to his longevity and effectiveness in a challenging sport. These numbers have contributed to his ranking as the No. 22 available free agent earlier in the offseason, a testament to his sustained impact in Major League Baseball.

Challenges and Triumphs

Treinen's journey hasn't been without its obstacles. A shoulder surgery sidelined him for the majority of the 2022-23 season, compelling him to face the daunting challenge of rehabilitation. Additionally, a spring training mishap left Treinen with fractured ribs and a bruised lung, further testing his resilience and determination to return to peak performance. Yet, Treinen has consistently bounced back, leveraging his experience and tenacity to overcome adversity. His 2021 season was another testament to his skill, where he posted a 1.99 ERA with a 3.40 strikeout-to-walk ratio, reaffirming his position as one of the league's elite relievers.

Future Prospects

With his new contract in hand, Treinen is poised to continue his career with the Dodgers, a team that has come to value his veteran leadership and reliability. As he prepares for the upcoming seasons, both Treinen and the Dodgers are undoubtedly optimistic about what lies ahead. His return adds depth to their bullpen, providing the team with a strategic advantage as they aim to compete for championships. Treinen's career exemplifies the highs and lows of professional baseball, a testament to enduring talent and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As he embarks on this next chapter with the Dodgers, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, eager to see how Treinen will further etch his legacy in the annals of baseball history.