The LA Angels have placed reliever Fernando Rodney on the 15 day disabled list. Rodney is suffering from an upper back strain.
Rodney has only pitched once in the past two weeks, appearing in a June 8th contest against the Tampa Bay Rays.
It took the Angels all of four games this year to remove Rodney from his role as the team’s closer. The team made the decision after Rodney’s second appearance in which the right hander allowed two runs in only a third of an inning. Rodney allowed one hit while walking 3.
It’s been those walks that have bothered Rodney throughout his career. While he’s held hitters to a .238 batting average over his 9 seasons, he’s given up almost 5 BB/9. Rodney’s effectiveness to close out games has continued to decline. On top of his control issues the reliever has not posted a season ERA south of 4.00 since 2006.
Unfortunately for the Angels, they were taken by Rodney’s standout season in 2009. The Dominican native was able to save 37 of 38 games as a member of the Detroit Tigers. This led to a 2 year/$11 million deal and many headaches for manager Mike Scioscia.
Jordan Walden has stepped up and performed well as the club’s new closer. The 23 year old had a shaky May, blowing 3 save opportunities, but on the year has been impressive. He’s saved 15 of 18 games while keeping an ERA of 2.76 and a 1.26 WHIP.
LA has recalled right hander Bobby Cassevah to take Rodney’s spot on the roster.