MESA, Ariz. — It wasn’t smooth from the start, but Blake Treinen worked his way into solidifying his status as the A’s closer last season with a strong finish to the season that saw him convert 12 consecutive save opportunities.
Now set for his first full season with the A’s, Treinen, 29, enters spring training looking to make life even more difficult for hitters.
Treinen, who was acquired last July from the Washington Nationals in exchange for Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson, has always had nasty stuff. Possessing a sinker that averages 97 miles per hour and the ability to reach triple digits with his fastball, he can be one of the toughest pitchers to hit.