Rodriguez Debut Highlights Diamondbacks' Success
The Arizona Diamondbacks celebrated a notable milestone on Wednesday afternoon with the return of Eduardo Rodriguez, a pitcher whose anticipated debut had been delayed for months due to a shoulder injury that originally appeared as a cramp in his back near his shoulder. This debut marks a significant moment in a season that has seen its fair share of challenges and triumphs for the team.
Rodriguez, who signed an $80 million, four-year contract with the Diamondbacks in December, was sidelined by the injury since spring training. His comeback required a careful and extensive four-month recovery period, without the benefit of any minor-league rehab starts. Instead, Rodriguez faced minor leaguers in simulated games at the team’s spring training complex to prepare for his return to the mound.
His much-anticipated debut did not disappoint. Pitching in the second game of a doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians, Rodriguez managed an impressive performance, containing the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings. He required only 65 pitches to complete his outing, showcasing his efficiency and determination to make a strong start after his long hiatus.
The game resulted in a key 5-3 victory for the Diamondbacks, lifting their record to 63-52 for the season. This win is part of an impressive run for the team, which has now won 18 of its last 23 games, steadily climbing within reach of the NL West lead. They currently sit just 3 1/2 games behind the leading Los Angeles Dodgers, with the Dodgers' game against the Philadelphia Phillies pending.
Rodriguez’s performance was particularly notable given his reduced velocity compared to his 2023 season with the Detroit Tigers. Last year, Rodriguez made 26 starts, pitching 131 1/3 innings and maintaining a 3.30 ERA. Despite the velocity dip, his debut was promising, delivering the control and skill the Diamondbacks had hoped for when they signed him.
Reflecting on his journey and debut, Rodriguez expressed his satisfaction and readiness to contribute. "I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," he said. "That's what we're really looking for and what I've prepared myself to go out there and do: help my team to go to the postseason again."
This season has seen the Diamondbacks utilizing an array of pitchers, 13 different starting pitchers to be exact, highlighting the challenges faced with consistency and health in their rotation. Rodriguez’s successful return could provide the stability and depth the team needs as they push for a postseason spot.
The game also deepened the Cleveland Guardians' struggles, marking their fifth consecutive loss, a season-high losing streak for the team. Prior to this slump, the Guardians had not lost more than three consecutive games. As a result, their AL Central lead has shrunk to only 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin since June 8.
Rodriguez's journey to the Diamondbacks has been anything but straightforward. He opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers, had the opportunity to be traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season but exercised his no-trade clause to block the deal. His decision to stay put raised some eyebrows, but now as he steps back onto the mound, it’s clear he has found his place with Arizona.
The Diamondbacks are hopeful that Rodriguez's return, combined with their current momentum, will steer them towards a playoff position. With each game becoming increasingly crucial, the team’s ability to harness this energy and maintain their winning ways will determine their postseason fate. For now, Eduardo Rodriguez’s successful debut is a promising sign and a testament to the resilience and potential of the Diamondbacks as they continue their campaign.