The Los Angeles Dodgers may have received an unexpected boost to their postseason outlook. Blake Treinen, who was initially feared to be out for the remainder of the season, could still have a chance to return if his recovery progresses well.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman offered the encouraging update, leaving the door open for a possible late-postseason comeback. While there is no guarantee Treinen will pitch again this year, the latest information suggests his injury may not be as serious as initially feared.
The veteran reliever’s availability would be valuable for a Dodgers bullpen facing the pressure of another deep October run. Los Angeles has already dealt with significant pitching injuries, making any potential reinforcement worth watching.
Friedman described Treinen’s issue as “shoulder soreness” and said it was not a surgical injury. That represents a notable change from the initial expectation that the right-hander was finished for the year.
Treinen was reportedly hurt while warming up late in the regular season. The setback raised immediate concerns about his availability, especially given his importance as an experienced high-leverage option.
The Dodgers have not included him on their National League Division Series roster. Even if he makes progress, he would still need to resume throwing, build up his arm and prove he can handle the demands of postseason competition. A potential return remains a possibility, not a confirmed plan.
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Treinen’s value extends beyond his experience. He has been a dependable bullpen option when healthy, and his ability to handle difficult innings could give manager Dave Roberts more flexibility in close games.
Los Angeles opened its NLDS against the Atlanta Braves with a 5-3 win, but the series is far from settled. The Dodgers will need their active pitchers to keep delivering while Treinen works toward a possible return.
For now, the update is simply a reason for optimism. If the Dodgers advance deep into October and Treinen makes enough progress, his season might not be over after all.
