After missing nearly five months while recovering from a partial tear in his right throwing shoulder, Blake Treinen appeared in just two games before going back on the 15-day injured list.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts found a silver lining in that Treinen’s right shoulder soreness was not believed to be related to his previous long-term injury. That optimism was supported by Treinen quickly resuming a throwing program, but his progress then stalled.
The veteran relief pitcher was shut down for a few days before again starting to play on Tuesday at Petco Park.
Treinen was encouraged by the throwing session and said he exhausting all options to recover in time for Game 1 of the National League Division Series, via SportsNet LA:
“Honest to God, I really don’t know. I’m trying everything I can. We’re doing a ton of treatment, we’re doing a lot of strengthening. We’re doing extra stuff that at any point in my career, I’ve never had to do. I’ve done a lot of training with my shoulder and been healthy for most of my career. So it’s all just trying to hammer this down and make sure I’m available in some capacity. God willing, things will work out to where I’m available at some point in the playoffs.”
Treinen has only made five appearances this season, but done so to the tune of a 1.80 ERA and 0.40 WHIP in five innings. He didn’t allow a hit in two games after coming off the 60-day IL earlier this month.
Treinen’s availability for October looms particularly key for the Dodgers in the wake of Craig Kimbrel being removed from his closer role due to ongoing struggles.
Blake Treinen will be on Dodgers postseason roster if healthy
Even if Treinen is unable to return during the regular season, Roberts said he still would be included on the Dodgers postseason roster so long as health permits.
If Treinen is included on the roster at any point during the playoffs but removed due to injury, he would not be allowed to return.
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