On Wednesday afternoon, the Arizona Diamondbacks celebrated a significant achievement as they completed a doubleheader sweep against the Cleveland Guardians. This notable moment was punctuated by the much-anticipated debut of Eduardo Rodriguez, who had been sidelined since spring training due to a shoulder injury initially described as a cramp in his back near his shoulder.
Rodriguez's return to the mound was a long-awaited sight for Diamondbacks fans. The left-hander, who signed a four-year, $80 million contract in December, had undergone a rigorous four-month recovery period without any minor-league rehab starts. Instead, he faced minor leaguers in simulated games at the team's spring training complex, meticulously preparing for his comeback.
In the second game of the doubleheader, Rodriguez showcased his skills by containing the Guardians on three runs from four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings, achieving this with an economical 65 pitches. "I'm glad that I'm going to pitch this season and be able to help the team for that last push," Rodriguez said, reflecting his determination to contribute significantly to his team's success.
The Diamondbacks secured a 5-3 victory in the game, pushing their season record to an impressive 63-52. With this win, they have now triumphed in 18 of their last 23 games, narrowing the gap to 3 1/2 games behind the NL West lead as they await the results of the Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies 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," Rodriguez affirmed.
Though his velocity was down compared to his 2023 performance with the Detroit Tigers, Rodriguez's impact was felt. In 2023, he made 26 starts, pitched 131 1/3 innings, and maintained a 3.30 ERA. His acquisition provided a much-needed boost to a rotation that has utilized 13 different starting pitchers this season.
Meanwhile, the Guardians are experiencing a rough patch, having lost five consecutive games, marking their longest losing streak of the season. This slump has significantly narrowed their AL Central lead to just 3 1/2 games, the smallest margin they have held since June 8.
Rodriguez's journey to his Diamondbacks debut was not without twists. After opting out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers, he exercised his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. These decisions have set the stage for his current role with the Diamondbacks, where he aims to make a pivotal contribution in the latter part of the season.
In addition to Rodriguez’s performance, another development in the Diamondbacks’ pitching staff occurred as Kelly commenced his first rehab start on Tuesday. This comes as the team continues to shuffle its roster, striving for a spot in the postseason.
As Rodriguez continues to rebuild and strengthen his form, his sight is set on helping the Diamondbacks secure a playoff berth. With his seasoned arm and unwavering resolve, his presence on the mound could be the catalyst Arizona needs to make a deep postseason run.