Eduardo Rodriguez Returns to the Mound, Leads Diamondbacks to Victory
The Arizona Diamondbacks marked a significant milestone on Wednesday afternoon with the much-anticipated debut of pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez. Rodriguez had been sidelined due to a shoulder injury since spring training, and his comeback added a new layer of excitement to the Diamondbacks' season.
Rodriguez, who signed a four-year, $80 million contract with Arizona in December, pitched in the second game of the Diamondbacks' doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians. Despite the delay in his debut—initially due to a shoulder injury described as a cramp—Rodriguez made an immediate impact, containing the Guardians to three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings. He required only 65 pitches to complete his outing, showcasing efficiency and control despite a lower velocity compared to his 2023 performance with the Detroit Tigers.
"I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," Rodriguez shared after the game. "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."
This debut was made even more remarkable by Rodriguez's four-month recovery process, which did not include any minor-league rehab starts. Instead, he faced minor leaguers in simulated games at the team's spring training complex, preparing himself for a high-stakes return to Major League Baseball.
The Diamondbacks' 5-3 victory over the Guardians not only marked Rodriguez's successful comeback but also improved the team's record to 63-52. This win underscores a hot streak for Arizona, which has won 18 of its last 23 games. As a result, the Diamondbacks find themselves just 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead, pending the outcome of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies game.
This season has seen the Diamondbacks utilize 13 different starting pitchers, underscoring the significance of Rodriguez's return to their rotation. The team benefited greatly from his experience and skills, especially given his impressive 2023 season with the Tigers, where he made 26 starts and threw 131 1/3 innings with a 3.30 ERA.
For the Cleveland Guardians, the loss added to their woes, extending their season-high losing streak to five games. Before this slump, the Guardians had not lost more than three consecutive games. The AL Central lead, once robust, has now dwindled to a mere 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin the Guardians have held since June 8.
Rodriguez's journey to the Diamondbacks has been eventful. He opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers and previously used his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. His commitment to the Diamondbacks, however, has already begun to pay dividends.
In other news for Arizona, Kelly made his first rehab start on Tuesday, signaling more reinforcements on the horizon for the Diamondbacks' pitching staff as they make their push towards the postseason. The return of key players like Rodriguez and Kelly could be the catalyst Arizona needs to solidify their playoff hopes.
Overall, Eduardo Rodriguez's return to the mound was not just a personal victory but a triumphant moment for the Diamondbacks, encapsulating their resilience and determination this season. Rodriguez's seamless integration back into the lineup brings renewed hope and energy to a team on the cusp of a potential playoff berth.