Blue Jays interested in Francisco Rodriguez

The Blue Jays’ quest for bullpen help continues, and with their recent surge, it appears they’re taking it more seriously than ever. Per The Toronto Sun’s Bob Elliot, Toronto has expressed interest in Milwaukee closer Francisco Rodriguez, and is also looking for a starting pitcher.

Rodriguez joins Oakland’s Tyler Clippard and Philadelphia’s Jonathan Papelbon as prominent relief pitchers linked to the Toronto in recent weeks, and the club appears to still be interested in both arms as well. It was reported yesterday that several clubs were in attendance for Papelbon’s most recent outing, and it’s hard to imagine Toronto didn’t have scouting personnel in attendance.

With interest in Clippard already high and salary/prospect demands for Papelbon perhaps even more so, Rodriguez offers perhaps a more reasonable target for the Jays, as talk surrounding the Brewers’ veteran trade chips appears to be minimal league-wide to this point. The former All-Star would instantly provide a facelift to an unimpressive Toronto bullpen, which could go a long way towards helping the Jays leapfrog Tampa Bay and New York in the American League East.

Rodriguez is due $3.5-million for the remainder of this season, as well as $7.5-million next year with a $6-million club option ($2-million buyout) for 2017. His controllability will likely up his trade price, but he’s nonetheless a more than plausible option for the Jays moving forward.