Minnesota Twins reportedly sign Fernando Rodney
By Brad Faber
The Minnesota Twins needed to find a closer this offseason. According to reports, they have now found one in Fernando Rodney.
In 2017, the Minnesota Twins were one of MLB’s feel-good stories. The Twins made the postseason for the first time since 2010, and became the first team to reach the postseason following a 100-loss season.
Moreover, the Twins went into “sell-mode” last summer, which made their trip to the postseason even more impressive. At the end of July, the Twins traded Brandon Kintzler, their closer, to the Washington Nationals.
Kintzler saved 28 games for the Twins last season. Matt Belisle had the second most saves on the team with nine. Both pitchers hit the free agent market this offseason, and it seemed quite possible that one might return. However, Kintzler has now agreed to a two-year deal to re-sign with the Nationals, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.
While a reunion with Kintzler no longer appears to be an option, the Twins have reportedly found a new closer elsewhere. Per Craig Mish of SiriusXM, the Twins have agreed to a one-year, $4.5 million deal with Fernando Rodney. The veteran right-hander could also earn an additional $1.5 million in incentives, according to Mish.
Specifics : Rodney deal is 1 yr 4.5 MIL + 1.5 incentives, likely ends up 6.
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) December 14, 2017
Rodney’s past success
Throughout his career, Rodney has had his moments of dominance, but he has also been known for delivering quite a few “roller-coaster” performances in the ninth inning. He also, of course, began his career in the AL Central with the Detroit Tigers.
Rodney spent seven seasons in Detroit, posting a 4.28 ERA across 330 innings and racking up 70 saves.
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Since leaving the Tigers after the 2009 season, Rodney has pitched for the Los Angeles Angels, Tampa Bay Rays, Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, Miami Marlins and most recently the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Over the past eight seasons, Rodney has had a couple of truly excellent years. In 2012, he posted an 0.60 ERA through 74.2 innings with the Rays.
In 2014, he posted a 2.85 ERA and converted 48 saves for the Mariners.
This past season, Rodney helped the Diamondbacks clinch their first playoff berth since 2011. While he had an elevated ERA of 4.23, he converted 39 saves in 45 opportunities. It should also be noted that he had a 3.38 ERA while pitching away from hitter-friendly Chase Field.
Rodney also achieved a 10.57 K/9, marking the fourth time in the past five years he averaged more than 10 strikeouts per nine innings. For his career, Rodney has now accumulated a total of 300 saves.
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In addition to the Twins, there were other teams that were interested in Rodney’s services as well. According to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, the Diamondbacks and Tigers were both interested in a reunion with Rodney, with the Texas Rangers showing interest as well.
Although he will turn 41 in March, Rodney has shown that he can still be a solid bullpen piece. He should be a nice short-term option for the Twins in the ninth inning.