Angels Get Serious

December 22, 2009 · Paul Raymond · Jump to comments

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According to Jayson Stark of ESPN, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are getting into serious negotiations with relief pitcher Fernando Rodney. Rodney has been looking for $30 million over three years, but with the him being one of the last few good relief pitchers and the closing market drying up could he finally be lowering his demands?

Not sure about that but he’s at least got a team seriously considering him now. And not only that but the Angels could be a good fit for him. Rodney would be the primary setup guy but thanks to Brian Fuentes option for 2011 (based on games finished) he would get plenty of opportunities to close.

2009 was Rodney’s first stint as a closer, saving 37 games but a very high ERA of 4.40 and a career low SO/9 ratio of 7.3. Those numbers are probably what scared many teams off as having him as a closer. Unfortunately many teams probably didn’t notice his 2.70 ERA in actual save situations, when the games on the line he produces. Which could make him very valuable to a contending team like the Angels.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see Rodney take over the closing duties by midseason if the Angels do sign him. Even if I’m wrong and he doesn’t he should help the team shorten the game for its starters. A rotation that is drastically weaker and can use that help after the departure of John Lackey.

I doubt he gets the $10 million per that he would like but then again the Angels could be desperate to make any move at this point.

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