Blake Treinen's baseball journey is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the unpredictable nature of the game. From an unheralded prospect to one of the most dominant relievers in baseball, Treinen's career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by both breathtaking success and frustrating setbacks.
The Early Years: A Winding Path to the Majors
Unlike many top prospects who burst onto the scene with fanfare, Treinen's path to the majors was a winding one. Drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the seventh round of the 2011 MLB draft, he toiled in the minor leagues, honing his skills and developing his unique pitching style. He transitioned from starting pitcher to reliever, a move that would ultimately define his career.
Treinen's early years in the majors were marked by inconsistency. Traded to the Washington Nationals, he bounced between the majors and minors, searching for his footing in the big leagues. While flashes of his potential were evident, he struggled to harness his raw talent and establish himself as a reliable arm.
Oakland A's: The Emergence of a Dominant Force
The turning point in Treinen's career came in 2018 when he was traded to the Oakland Athletics. It was in Oakland that he blossomed into one of the most feared relievers in baseball. Armed with a devastating sinker-slider combination, Treinen became virtually untouchable. His sinker, often clocking in the high 90s, induced weak ground balls, while his sharp slider left hitters baffled.
In 2018, Treinen put together a truly remarkable season. He recorded 38 saves, an ERA of 0.78 (an almost unheard-of figure for a reliever), and a WHIP of 0.83. He was named an All-Star and finished ninth in the American League Cy Young Award voting. Treinen had cemented his place as one of the elite closers in the game.
The Setbacks: Injuries and Mechanical Adjustments
Just as Treinen seemed poised to continue his dominance, injuries began to take their toll. A shoulder strain in 2019 hampered his performance, and his effectiveness diminished. The following season, he struggled with further injuries and inconsistencies, leading to a decline in his velocity and command.
Treinen's struggles highlighted the delicate balance between mechanics and performance for pitchers. Even slight adjustments in mechanics, sometimes necessitated by injuries, can have a profound impact on a pitcher's ability to locate pitches and maintain velocity. Treinen's journey back to form would require him to address these mechanical issues and rediscover the rhythm and consistency that had made him so successful.
Los Angeles Dodgers: A Resurgence in Blue
In 2021, Treinen signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, a move that would prove to be a turning point in his career. Working with the Dodgers' renowned pitching coaches, he began to regain his form. He rediscovered the bite on his slider and the velocity on his sinker, albeit not quite to his 2018 levels. More importantly, he regained his confidence and rediscovered his ability to consistently challenge hitters.
While no longer the dominant closer he once was, Treinen became a valuable and reliable arm in the Dodgers' bullpen. He embraced a setup role, bridging the gap to closer Kenley Jansen, and later, Craig Kimbrel. His experience and resilience proved invaluable to a team with World Series aspirations.
Treinen's contribution to the Dodgers' 2020 World Series championship run was significant. He pitched effectively throughout the postseason, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. His resurgence was a testament to his perseverance and the Dodgers' ability to help pitchers regain their form.
The Present and Future: Continued Impact and Legacy
As Treinen continues his career with the Dodgers, he remains a valuable asset to their bullpen. His experience, veteran presence, and ability to pitch in high-leverage situations provide stability and depth to a pitching staff that consistently contends for championships.
While he may not reach the heights of his 2018 season again, Treinen's story is one of perseverance and adaptation. He has faced adversity and overcome injuries to remain a productive major league pitcher. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and a reminder that even in the face of setbacks, success can be found through hard work, determination, and a willingness to adapt.
Blake Treinen: Key Statistics and Accomplishments
- 2018 All-Star
- 2020 World Series Champion (Los Angeles Dodgers)
- Career ERA: 3.02
- 2018 Season: 0.78 ERA, 38 Saves, 0.83 WHIP
Frequently Asked Questions about Blake Treinen
What is Blake Treinen's pitching style?
Blake Treinen primarily relies on a sinker-slider combination. His sinker generates weak ground balls, while his slider serves as his primary out pitch. He also occasionally throws a four-seam fastball and a changeup.
What injuries has Blake Treinen faced during his career?
Treinen has dealt with shoulder and back injuries that have impacted his performance at various points in his career.
What is Blake Treinen's current role with the Dodgers?
Treinen currently serves as a key setup reliever in the Dodgers' bullpen, often pitching in high-leverage situations.
What is Blake Treinen's salary?
(Note: Salary information can change frequently. It's best to consult a reliable source like Spotrac for the most up-to-date information.)