Noah Syndergaard turned down more lucrative offers in favor of signing a one-year, $13 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers this past offseason in large part because of the organization’s reputation in helping pitchers revive their careers.
But Syndergaard struggled for most of his tenure with the Dodgers as he posted a 1-4 record, 7.16 ERA, 5.53 FIP and 1.45 WHIP in 12 starts. The right-hander was traded to the Cleveland Guardians for Amed Rosario last month.
It didn’t take long for Syndergaard to face his former team as he started against the Dodgers in Tuesday’s series opener at Progressive Field. The 30-year-old did not factor into the decision, but turned in a quality start by allowing just three runs over six innings pitched.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts reflected on Syndergaard’s time in L.A. with some regret but an understanding that change likely was best for all involved, via SportsNet LA:
“I’m disappointed it didn’t work out. I liked Noah. We had a good relationship and I wish him well. We exhausted everything we could do. It just didn’t take. I think it was one of those things that for both parties, sometimes it just doesn’t work. Hopefully something clicks over here in Cleveland. I’m happy we got Rosario in return. But I know Noah liked being in Los Angeles. The match just didn’t happen.”
Roberts echoed similar sentiments when Cody Bellinger played the Dodgers for the first time as a member of the Chicago Cubs.
While Syndergaard is long removed from his days as a hard-thrower with the New York Mets, he has experienced some improvement in Cleveland. In five starts, Syndergaard has gone 1-2 with a 4.94 ERA, 6.71 FIP and 1.32 WHIP across 27.1 innings pitched.
Noah Syndergaard: Start against Dodgers ‘bittersweet’
After his start on Tuesday, Syndergaard admitted to having mixed emotions pitching against the Dodgers.
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