Veteran relief-pitcher Fernando Rodney close to joining Tampa Bay Rays – MLB News
Some inside Major League sources are reporting in the media that former Los Angeles Angels’ and veteran relief pitcher Fernando Rodney is very close to signing with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Though, no official confirmation has been published in the media from both sides but sources are confirmed that Rodney will be playing in the Rays’ roster next season.
Even Rodney, who is currently in his native country Dominican Republic, has stated in the media last week that an official announcement is coming-in by the end of January. He also told the media that he and the Rays’ management have agreed on a potential
one year contract for approximately more than $2 million.
Fernando said, “It's confirmed, (it) will be published in January if God permits, I signed for one year with Tampa Bay to keep working hard and see if God gives me something better. I think there is a position, (Tampa Bay) told me that no closer (is defined).
We will fight the post to see who wins. I have faith in God that if you have to fight the post, I'm going to go.”
Rodney, an eight year Major League veteran and a former Detroit Tigers and Angels’ top pitcher possesses some great abilities which will likely help the Rays franchise to compete in the next season.
Despite his tremendous performances during his entire professional baseball career, he could not put up a good show last season. Many experts believe that this is the main reason why he was not given an extension in his contract by the Angels’ top
management at the end of the 2011 MLB season as later he official filed for free agency.
Last season, Rodney had a 4.50 ERA along with three saves, 26 strike-outs and 1.69 WHIP. While these stats are certainly a poor show especially when compared to his career 4.29 ERA with 87 saves, 393 strike-outs and 1.46 WHIP.
Keeping in mind all these stats, some experts also believe that Fernando Rodney’s arrival in the Rays’ roster will boost the winning chances next year while his own performance will also increase towards some consistency.
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