Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Blake Treinen is currently dealing with a forearm injury, presenting both positive and uncertain news for the team. Treinen underwent an MRI to assess the issue, which revealed no structural damage but a low-grade sprain.
While some estimates suggest a potential six-week recovery timeframe for such injuries, the Dodgers have not established a firm timetable for his return. The team is expected to exercise caution in his rehabilitation, prioritizing his long-term health, particularly with the postseason in mind.
The decision to place Treinen on the injured list was made after he experienced discomfort.
Los Angeles Dodgers Provide Injury Update For Blake Treinen
Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged Treinen’s communication about the issue, stating, “I appreciated [Treinen] letting us know his discomfort.” Prior to the MRI results, Roberts had indicated a moderate level of concern: “Not too concerned, given that he was still trying to pitch yesterday. But I think I just reserve judgment until we get more from the scan. But the level of concern is not too high right now,” via the OC Register.
Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times posted to social media that, “Roberts framed that diagnosis as good news, saying the team ‘dodged a bullet, ‘ it wasn’t anything worse.”
Treinen’s recent discomfort reportedly began during a game against the Chicago Cubs on April 13, where he allowed a home run to Pete Crow-Armstrong, though he also recorded three strikeouts in the same outing. He warmed up during the first game of the recent series against the Texas Rangers, but ultimately did not pitch due to the persisting tightness.
This forearm issue adds to Treinen’s recent injury history. Shoulder problems sidelined him for much of the 2022 season and the entire 2023 season, ultimately requiring labrum and rotator cuff surgeries. His planned return for the 2024 season was further delayed by a bruised lung in Spring Training, and he also had a brief IL stint last season due to a hip issue. The Dodgers signed Treinen to a two-year, $22 million contract last winter.
Despite these setbacks, Treinen has been highly effective when healthy. In his five seasons with Los Angeles, the right-hander has posted a 2.34 ERA, a 28.4% strikeout rate, and a 7.6% walk rate across 157 2/3 relief innings. He also has a 3.24 ERA in 33 1/3 postseason innings with the Dodgers, contributing to their championship wins in 2020 and 2024. As Treinen approaches his 37th birthday in June, the Dodgers face the challenge of managing his health while relying on his proven performance when available.