LOS ANGELES (WIBW) – The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on Tuesday, Dec. 12, that reliever Blake Treinen, an Osage City High School alum, has agreed to return to the team.
The 36-year-old pitcher, a key player for the defending World Series champions, signed a two-year contract worth $22 million after an impressive 2024 season, where he posted a 1.93 ERA.
Treinen has maintained a sub-2.00 ERA in three of his last four full seasons and delivered strong postseason performances in 2024, pitching in nine games with a 2-0 record, a 2.19 ERA, three saves, and 18 strikeouts.
In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Dodgers have re-signed veteran reliever Blake Treinen to a two-year deal, despite swirling controversy that recently rocked the team. The agreement, announced Friday, signals a vote of confidence in Treinen’s abilities on the mound, but also highlights the tough decisions the Dodgers front office faced amid public scrutiny.
The controversy erupted earlier this week when a contentious social media post linked to Treinen caused a stir among fans and analysts. While the specifics of the post remain unclear, sources suggest it involved comments perceived as divisive, igniting debates about team values and player accountability. The backlash reportedly forced the Dodgers into deliberating whether to retain the 36-year-old pitcher or part ways with him.
Treinen, who has been a key part of the Dodgers’ bullpen when healthy, was sidelined for much of the 2023 and 2024 seasons due to shoulder injuries. However, his elite performance in prior years, including a dominant 2021 campaign with a 1.99 ERA, likely played a role in the team’s decision to bring him back.
In a statement released by the Dodgers, the team acknowledged the controversy but emphasized their commitment to fostering a supportive and accountable environment. “Blake has been a valued member of our organization, both on and off the field. After thorough discussions, we believe he has learned from this experience and will continue to represent the Dodgers with professionalism and integrity,” the statement read.
Treinen also addressed the incident in a brief message, apologizing to fans and teammates while promising to focus on his performance. “I take full responsibility for my actions and the impact they’ve had on those around me. I’m grateful for the opportunity to move forward and contribute to this incredible team,” he said.
The two-year deal is reported to include a team option for 2027, with a lower guaranteed salary reflecting Treinen’s recent injury history. The Dodgers are hopeful that a healthy Treinen can return to his role as a dominant late-inning weapon, anchoring a bullpen that struggled with consistency in 2024.
The decision has already sparked mixed reactions among Dodgers fans, with some applauding the move to retain Treinen’s talent and others questioning the team’s handling of the controversy. As the Dodgers prepare for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on Treinen—not just for his performance on the mound, but also for how he navigates this fresh start under the spotlight.
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