Blake Treinen enjoyed a successful 2021 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but last year was marred by a significant right shoulder injury that ultimately required surgery and has created some doubt for 2023.
Treinen appeared in just three games this past season before being placed on the 15-day injured list April 22 due to right shoulder trouble. The Dodgers initially expected a relatively quick return, but Treinen was not activated off the 60-day IL until the beginning of September.
During his prolonged stint on the IL, the Dodgers signed Treinen to a one-year contract extension. Prior to that, they held an $8 million team option and $1.5 million buyout on Treinen’s deal for 2023.
What later became apparent is Treinen’s new contract was a show of good faith as he worked to return from a tear in the capsule of his right shoulder. Season-ending surgery was initially recommended, but Treinen instead opted for rest and rehab process.
“My wife and I just felt the need to seek God and prayer, and see what his hand is in the recovery process,” Treinen explained in September.
“Had some good friends of the family out in Colorado give us some insight of sometimes you’ve got to ask God how he wants to heal you, versus just being praying for something miraculous. Then went back and that’s when we had our conversations with Andrew (Friedman), and very grateful they were willing to see a benefit in both ways. So we agreed to do the rehab process.”
Unfortunately, Treinen appeared in just two games during the final month of the season before going back on the 15-day IL. The shoulder injury prevented him from pitching again until the National League Division Series, when he allowed one run and issued two walks in a single appearance.
Blake Treinen 2022 highlight
After missing five months because of the shoulder injury, Treinen produced a clean inning in his first appearance off the 60-day IL.
2023 outlook
Treinen underwent surgery in November to repair the labrum and rotator cuff in his right shoulder. He faces a long road to get back on the mound, but the 34-year-old is confident he will return this season.
Though, at best that wouldn’t figure to come until some time after the All-Star break.
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