On a sunlit Wednesday afternoon, the Arizona Diamondbacks celebrated a pivotal moment in their season with the much-anticipated debut of pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez. After being sidelined by a shoulder injury since spring training, Rodriguez finally took the mound in the second game of Arizona's doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians.
Rodriguez, who inked a four-year, $80 million contract with the Diamondbacks in December, had his debut delayed due to a shoulder injury initially described as a cramp in his back near his shoulder. The left-hander endured a challenging four-month recovery period without the benefit of any minor-league rehab starts, instead facing minor leaguers in simulated games at the team's spring training complex.
Rodriguez’s Impactful Debut
In his 2024 debut, Rodriguez showcased his prowess by containing the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings. His efficient performance required only 65 pitches, highlighting his ability to manage the game with precision and control. This efficient outing facilitated the Diamondbacks' 5-3 victory over the Guardians, a win that not only marked Rodriguez's successful return but also extended the Diamondbacks' impressive season record to 63-52.
Reflecting on his return to the mound, Rodriguez expressed relief and eagerness to contribute to his team's postseason ambitions. "I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," Rodriguez stated. 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’ Strong Season
The victory continued an extraordinary run for the Diamondbacks, who have now secured 18 wins in their last 23 games. This surge has positioned them just 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead, pending the result of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game.
Rodriguez's velocity may have been down compared to his 2023 performance with the Detroit Tigers, but his strategic pitching was as formidable as ever. In the previous season, Rodriguez made 26 starts, throwing 131 1/3 innings with a 3.30 ERA, demonstrating his consistent ability to dominate on the mound.
Despite utilizing 13 different starting pitchers this season, the Diamondbacks have found a way to stay competitive and dynamic. Rodriguez’s addition to the rotation could be the boost they need to solidify their playoff aspirations.
Guardians’ Struggles Continue
On the other side of the diamond, the Cleveland Guardians are grappling with a season-high losing streak, now extending to five consecutive games. This slump marks a stark contrast to their earlier season performance, where they had not lost more than three consecutive games. As a result, their once robust AL Central lead has dwindled to just 3 1/2 games, the slimmest margin since June 8.
Future Outlook
Rodriguez's return is not only vital for the Diamondbacks' playoff push but also a personal triumph after navigating a complicated recovery process. The pitcher made headlines last season for opting out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers and using his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers, positioning himself to aid the Diamondbacks this season.
As Rodriguez aimed to help the Diamondbacks, veteran pitcher Kelly made his first rehab start on Tuesday, signaling that more reinforcements could soon bolster the team's rotation.
In what has already been an eventful season for the Diamondbacks, Eduardo Rodriguez's debut injects hope and determination into a team eyeing postseason success. As the games progress and the stakes heighten, fans and analysts alike will be watching how Rodriguez and the Diamondbacks navigate the final stretch of the season, driven by their recent momentum and the return of their seasoned pitcher.