After another grueling season, Dodgers’ veteran reliever Daniel Hudson still isn’t ready to call it quits – but he’s also not committing to another year. At 37, Hudson has endured a relentless string of injuries, including two major elbow surgeries and knee operations in just two years. Yet despite the toll, Hudson returned to the Dodgers in 2024, eager to prove he’s still got more to give. His performance in the regular season was stellar, finishing with a 6-2 record and a 3.00 ERA, but his future is now clouded by uncertainty.
In a moment of raw honesty, Hudson shared, “I’m just trying to get through this – get through today.” He added, “We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.” For fans, it’s a stark reminder that Hudson’s comeback isn’t guaranteed, even if his presence in the Dodgers’ bullpen has been a crucial asset.
Hudson has not only delivered under high pressure but has managed to do so after overcoming career-altering injuries. From his 2012 Tommy John surgery to a devastating second UCL tear requiring another Tommy John in 2013, Hudson’s road back has been nothing short of relentless. “This team has taken such good care of me and my family,” he said earlier this season, describing a loyalty to the Dodgers that many fans can’t help but admire. “They didn’t have to, and I feel like I kind of owe it to them. I want to hold my side of the bargain.”
In this year’s postseason, Hudson’s determination has shone brightly. In just 3.1 innings, he allowed only four hits, proving he still has firepower in high-stakes moments. Now a free agent again, Hudson’s decision to return to the Dodgers on a minor league deal instead of pursuing a major league contract elsewhere underscores the unique bond he feels with the team. As he put it, “Once I figured out that I wanted to give it another shot, I only wanted to come back here.”
But as retirement looms, Hudson is keenly aware of the fleeting nature of his time on the mound. Fans will be watching closely, but his final decision will likely come down to what he’s still able to endure physically – and emotionally – for the game he loves. Hudson’s journey has been an emblem of resilience, but even the strongest players have their limits. His uncertain future leaves one question lingering in the minds of Dodgers fans: Will Hudson return, or was this his final fight?
