Arizona Diamondbacks Mark Milestone with Eduardo Rodriguez's Return
The Arizona Diamondbacks achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday afternoon as Eduardo Rodriguez made his much-anticipated debut. The left-hander, who had been sidelined by a shoulder injury since spring training, returned to the mound in the second game of Arizona's doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians.
Rodriguez had signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the Diamondbacks in December, heightening expectations for his contribution to the team's pitching staff. However, his debut was delayed due to a shoulder issue initially described as a cramp in his back near his shoulder. This injury required a four-month recovery period during which Rodriguez did not undertake any minor-league rehab starts. Instead, he faced minor leaguers in simulated games at the team's spring training complex.
When Rodriguez finally took the mound for his 2024 debut, he did not disappoint. Containing the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings, Rodriguez needed only 65 pitches to complete his outing. His performance was instrumental in securing a 5-3 victory for the Diamondbacks, who have now improved their season record to 63-52.
"I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," Rodriguez said, highlighting his optimism and readiness to contribute to the team's postseason ambitions. "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."
The Diamondbacks' win bolstered their impressive record, having now won 18 of their last 23 games. This surge has positioned them just 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead, pending the outcome of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game. Notably, the Diamondbacks have utilized 13 different starting pitchers this season, showcasing their adaptability and depth in handling injuries and roster changes.
Despite the positive outcome, Rodriguez's velocity was notably down compared to his 2023 performance with the Detroit Tigers. Last year, Rodriguez made 26 starts, covering 131 1/3 innings and maintaining a solid 3.30 ERA. His move to Arizona came after opting out of his contract with the Tigers and using his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season.
Meanwhile, the Cleveland Guardians are grappling with a season-high losing streak, having dropped their last five consecutive games. This recent slump has reduced their AL Central lead to just 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin since June 8. Prior to this downturn, the Guardians had not lost more than three consecutive games, indicating a troubling trend as the season progresses.
On a related note, Diamondbacks' pitcher Kelly made his first rehab start on Tuesday, signaling potential reinforcements for the starting rotation. As the Diamondbacks continue their push towards the postseason, the return of key players like Rodriguez and Kelly could prove critical in their quest for success.
Overall, Wednesday's game marked a promising return for Eduardo Rodriguez and a critical win for the Arizona Diamondbacks as they navigate the final stretch of the season, striving for a place in the postseason.