When the San Diego Padres traded closer Craig Kimbrel, it opened up an immediate need for a new closer. Speculation was the team could fill the role internally, but now the team is reportedly close to signing veteran reliever Fernando Rodney, who would presumably fill that role.
sources; padres and fernando rodney are closing in on a deal
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 15, 2016
Rodney, 38, has been known for his fiery antics following his saves, which helped garner the persona of the “Fernando Rodney Experience.”
In 2014 while with the Seattle Mariners, Rodney led the American League with 48 saves and was named to the All-Star team. He was also an All-Star in 2012 with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Last season Rodney struggled for the Mariners, blowing seven saves in 23 opportunities to the tune of a 5.68 ERA.
He was traded to the Chicago Cubs on Aug. 27 and bounced back with a 0.75 ERA through 12 innings to close out the regular season.
Rodney is sixth out of active players with 236 saves and could provide a stop-gap until the team is able to find a long-term answer at the closer role.
