Eduardo Rodriguez Shines in Arizona Diamondbacks Debut
Marking a pivotal milestone, the Arizona Diamondbacks celebrated a significant moment on Wednesday afternoon as Eduardo Rodriguez finally made his much-anticipated debut. Despite being sidelined by a shoulder injury since spring training, Rodriguez demonstrated resilience and skill in his return to the mound.
Rodriguez took the ball in the second game of Arizona's doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians, showcasing the form that earned him a four-year, $80 million contract in December. The shoulder injury, initially described as a cramp, had delayed his debut by several months. Yet, Rodriguez used the recovery period to prepare methodically, facing minor leaguers in simulated games at the team's spring training complex without any minor-league rehab starts.
In his 2024 debut, Rodriguez expertly limited the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings, requiring only 65 pitches to complete his outing. His controlled performance was a key factor in the Diamondbacks' 5-3 victory, improving the team's record to 63-52 on the season.
"I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," Rodriguez said. "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 have been on a tear recently, winning 18 of their last 23 games. This latest victory places them just 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead, pending the outcome of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game. The pitching staff has been a notable strength for Arizona, as the team has utilized 13 different starting pitchers this season, adapting dynamically to various challenges.
Rodriguez's velocity was noted to be down compared to his 2023 performance with the Detroit Tigers. However, his efficiency and strategic pitching compensated for the slight dip in speed, as evidenced by his strong outing against Cleveland. Last year, Rodriguez made 26 starts and threw 131 1/3 innings with a commendable 3.30 ERA, statistics that emphasize his capability as a reliable starter.
The Guardians, meanwhile, have hit a rough patch, losing five consecutive games, marking a season-high losing streak. This slump has dramatically reduced their AL Central lead to just 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin they have held since June 8. Before this sequence, Cleveland had not lost more than three consecutive games, highlighting the sudden and significant nature of their downturn.
Rodriguez's journey to the Diamondbacks involved notable decisions. He opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers and used his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. His debut for Arizona not only signifies a personal triumph over injury but also represents a crucial reinforcement for a team eyeing postseason contention.
As the Diamondbacks continue their quest for a playoff spot, the return of key players like Rodriguez could prove vital. In addition to Rodriguez, pitcher Kelly made his first rehab start on Tuesday, pointing to more reinforcements on the horizon. With the team firing on all cylinders and key players regaining fitness, the Diamondbacks are poised to make a significant run as the season progresses.