Eduardo Rodriguez Returns with a Stellar Debut for the Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamondbacks marked a significant milestone on Wednesday afternoon as they witnessed the much-anticipated debut of Eduardo Rodriguez. A performance brimming with promise and resolve, Rodriguez's return has added to the momentum of a team vying for postseason glory.
After being sidelined by a shoulder injury since spring training, Rodriguez finally took to the mound in the second game of Arizona's doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians. The 30-year-old left-hander, who signed a four-year, $80 million contract in December, had his debut delayed due to the nagging injury initially described as a cramp in his back near his shoulder. The extensive four-month recovery period included simulated games against minor leaguers at the spring training complex, bypassing any minor-league rehab starts.
Rodriguez's return could not have been scripted better. In 5 2/3 innings, he contained the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks, requiring only 65 pitches. His performance was instrumental in leading the Diamondbacks to a 5-3 victory, thereby enhancing their record to 63-52 for the season. This victory also marked an impressive run for Arizona, who have won 18 of their last 23 games.
The Diamondbacks are now a formidable 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead, contingent on the outcome of the ongoing Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game. With Rodriguez back in action, the team hopes to narrow this gap even further as they make a strong push towards the postseason.
"I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," Rodriguez shared with palpable enthusiasm. "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."
Despite the excitement surrounding his return, it was observed that Rodriguez's velocity was down compared to his performance in 2023 with the Detroit Tigers. Last season, Rodriguez made 26 starts, threw 131 1/3 innings, and maintained a solid 3.30 ERA. Nevertheless, his effective outing against the Guardians provides a glimpse of the veteran's capability to adapt and deliver results under varying circumstances.
Rodriguez's journey to the Diamondbacks was not without its drama. In a noteworthy move, he opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers and notably used his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. Now, firmly with the Diamondbacks, Rodriguez's addition marks the 13th different starting pitcher utilized by Arizona this season — a testament to the team's adaptability and resourcefulness in navigating an injury-marred roster.
On the flip side, the Cleveland Guardians continue to grapple with challenges of their own. The loss against the Diamondbacks extended their losing streak to five consecutive games, their longest skid of the season. Prior to this slump, the Guardians had not lost more than three consecutive games. The recent downturn has seen their AL Central lead reduced to a precarious 3 1/2 games, the slimmest margin since June 8.
In another noteworthy development for the Diamondbacks, Kelly made his first rehab start on Tuesday, adding to the rotation depth as the team prepares for the critical stretch ahead. With Rodriguez's return and Kelly’s impending recovery, Arizona appears to be strategically bolstering their pitching arsenal at a crucial juncture in the season.
As the Diamondbacks gear up for the remaining games, the arrival of Eduardo Rodriguez certainly injects a new vigor into the team's pennant aspirations. His successful debut not only underscores the adage of talent and experience but also acts as a morale booster for a team that has shown commendable resilience and determination.
With Rodriguez's sight firmly set on helping Arizona clinch a postseason berth, the Diamondbacks' faithful have much to look forward to as their team battles it out for supremacy in the NL West.