The Arizona Diamondbacks marked a significant milestone on Wednesday afternoon as Eduardo Rodriguez took to the mound for his much-anticipated debut. Sidelined since spring training due to a shoulder injury initially described as a cramp, Rodriguez made his first start for Arizona in the second game of their doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians. His journey to this point has been anything but easy, punctuated by a four-month recovery period without any minor-league rehab starts.
Rodriguez's Performance and Recovery
Having signed a four-year, $80 million contract back in December, expectations were high for Rodriguez. Despite his delayed start, he did not disappoint. Facing the Guardians, Rodriguez efficiently held their lineup to three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings. Remarkably, he required only 65 pitches to complete his outing, demonstrating both skill and efficiency. “I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push,” Rodriguez stated, embodying the resilience he has shown throughout his recovery.
Simulated games against minor leaguers at the Diamondbacks' spring training complex served as Rodriguez's only preparation before stepping onto a Major League mound. His velocity may have been down compared to his 2023 performance with the Detroit Tigers, but his experience and command more than made up for it. Last year, Rodriguez made 26 starts, throwing 131 1/3 innings with a commendable 3.30 ERA. His debut with the Diamondbacks, however, appeared to signal a promising fresh start.
Impact on the Team
Rodriguez's debut was a welcome sight for the Diamondbacks, who have utilized 13 different starting pitchers this season. The team clinched a 5-3 victory over the Guardians, contributing to an impressive 63-52 record. This win also highlighted Arizona's current hot streak, having won 18 of their last 23 games. "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," said Rodriguez, echoing the aspirations of a franchise eager to make a playoff run.
With the Dodgers and Phillies yet to conclude their own game, the Diamondbacks' current standing is 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead. Rodriguez's successful return could be the catalyst Arizona needs to chase down a division title.
Guardians' Struggles Continue
The Cleveland Guardians, in contrast, are facing a bleak moment in their season. The loss to the Diamondbacks marked their fifth consecutive defeat, setting a new season-high losing streak. Until this point, the Guardians had not lost more than three consecutive games. Their once-secure lead in the AL Central has dwindled to a mere 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin since June 8. The team is clearly in a slump, and finding a way to reverse their fortunes will be crucial as they fight to retain their divisional lead.
Future Outlook
Rodriguez's return was not the only highlight for the Diamondbacks this week. Kelly, another key player, made his first rehab start on Tuesday, suggesting more reinforcements are on the way. These developments hint at a bolstered roster, ready to contend for the postseason. The season is entering its critical phase, and every game holds significant weight for teams like the Diamondbacks and Guardians.
For Arizona, the goal is clear: maintain the momentum and aim for the top of the division. As for Rodriguez, his debut is just the beginning. His performance on Wednesday afternoon sets a positive tone for what the franchise and its fans hope will be a defining chapter in their season.