On a significant Wednesday afternoon, the Arizona Diamondbacks witnessed a substantial breakthrough in their season. Eduardo Rodriguez, a key off-season acquisition, made his much-anticipated season debut. The left-hander, who signed a four-year, $80 million contract last December, had been absent from the mound since spring training due to a shoulder injury initially described as a cramp in his back near his shoulder.
Rodriguez’s Return to the Mound
The wait was worth it. Pitching in the second game of the Diamondbacks' doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians, Rodriguez showcased the skills that earned him his lucrative contract. After a four-month recovery period without any minor-league rehab starts, Rodriguez was prepared for his season debut through simulated games against minor leaguers at the team's spring training complex.
Despite his lengthy absence, Rodriguez demonstrated control and efficiency, using only 65 pitches to complete his outing. Over 5 2/3 innings, he managed to contain the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks. Although his velocity appeared down compared to his 2023 performance, where he made 26 starts and threw 131 1/3 innings with a 3.30 ERA for the Detroit Tigers, Rodriguez's competitive edge was evident.
Reflecting on his return, Rodriguez shared, "I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push." He added, "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."
Diamondbacks’ Momentum
The Diamondbacks secured a 5-3 victory over the Guardians in Rodriguez's debut game, pushing their season record to 63-52. This win encapsulated the team's recent surge, as they have triumphed in 18 of their last 23 games. Currently, the Diamondbacks sit 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead, a position pending the outcome of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game.
Arizona's rotation has seen significant variability this season, utilizing 13 different starting pitchers. The addition of Rodriguez aims to add stability and experience as the team eyes a postseason berth.
Guardians’ Struggles
While the Diamondbacks are on the rise, the Cleveland Guardians face a different trajectory. Suffering from their fifth consecutive loss, they have now reached their season-high losing streak. Before this slump, the Guardians hadn't lost more than three consecutive games. This downturn has shrunk their lead in the AL Central to just 3 1/2 games, the narrowest margin they have held since June 8.
Looking Ahead
For Eduardo Rodriguez, his debut marks the beginning of a new chapter with the Diamondbacks. Having opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers and using his no-trade clause to block a potential deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season, Rodriguez's journey to Arizona has been filled with pivotal decisions. His impact is now poised to climb as he fortifies the Diamondbacks' push towards the postseason.
In tandem with more pitchers, like Kelly who made his first rehab start on Tuesday, Rodriguez aims to be a cornerstone in the team’s efforts. His commitment underscores the Diamondbacks' strategy and aspirations.
As the season progresses, the Diamondbacks' resolve will be tested, but with Rodriguez back in the lineup, they have another solid reason to look forward to what lies ahead. The Guardians, on the other hand, will need to address their recent slide to maintain their standing.