Diamondbacks' Eduardo Rodriguez Makes Long-Awaited Debut
The Arizona Diamondbacks marked a significant milestone on Wednesday afternoon with the long-anticipated debut of pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez. After being sidelined since spring training due to a shoulder injury initially described as a cramp, Rodriguez finally took to the mound in the second game of Arizona's doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians.
Rodriguez, who joined the Diamondbacks on a four-year, $80 million contract signed in December, underwent a grueling four-month recovery period. During this time, he eschewed any minor-league rehab starts, opting instead to face minor leaguers in simulated games at the team's spring training complex. His patience and hard work paid off, culminating in a performance that offered a glimpse of his potential contribution to the team.
In his first start with the Diamondbacks, Rodriguez managed to contain the Guardians, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings. Rodriguez was efficient, needing only 65 pitches to complete his outing. Despite a noticeable drop in velocity compared to his 2023 season with the Detroit Tigers, where he made 26 starts and threw 131 1/3 innings with a 3.30 ERA, Rodriguez's debut was encouraging.
The Diamondbacks went on to secure a 5-3 victory in the game, improving their season record to 63-52. This win also marked their 18th victory in the last 23 games, solidifying their place as strong contenders in the NL West division. They now sit just 3 1/2 games behind the division-leading Los Angeles Dodgers, with the final standings still pending the outcome of the Dodgers' game against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Rodriguez expressed his enthusiasm about being back on the mound and contributing to the team’s playoff push. "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."
This debut wasn’t just a personal victory for Rodriguez; it was also a testament to the Diamondbacks' resilience. The team has utilized 13 different starting pitchers this season, navigating through a series of injuries and player movements. Rodriguez’s reliable presence on the mound could be a critical asset as they chase postseason success.
The game was also a reflection of the struggles faced by their opponents. The Cleveland Guardians have now lost five consecutive games, the longest losing streak of their season. This slump has significantly impacted their AL Central lead, which has dwindled to just 3 1/2 games—the smallest margin they have held since June 8. Prior to this losing streak, the Guardians hadn’t lost more than three consecutive games.
Rodriguez's path to this moment included difficult decisions. He opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers, and notably used his no-trade clause to block a deal to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. These choices, along with his injury and subsequent recovery, have shaped the narrative of his career in recent months.
The Diamondbacks’ victory and Rodriguez’s promising debut bring renewed hope to the team and its fans. With Rodriguez now in the rotation and the team continuing their strong run, the Diamondbacks are poised for a potentially exciting conclusion to the season.