San Diego Padres Trade Deadline Wish List
Richard Rodriguez, Pittsburgh Pirates
The Friars need to be aggressive in pursuing another arm for the bullpen, but they will not be the only team looking to upgrade this position.
One of their targets could be another Pirates player in team closer Richard Rodriguez. Currently, Rodriguez has a 1.71 ERA with an 0.684 WHIP and 7 saves in 25 appearances this season. However, his strike per nine innings average has dipped from 13.1 a year ago to 6.8 in 2021. Still, no one should question his effectiveness as a late-inning reliever.
Whoever acquires Rodriguez could change the shape of the NL playoff chase. Plus, that team will have control of his services through the 2023 season. The asking price by the Pirates will be significant, but Rodriquez could be the difference in hoisting a World Series trophy in the air.
Padres not worried about Tatis' shoulder. dark. Next
The San Diego Padres like other playoff contenders have holes to fill on their roster. It is important to keep a close eye on them for the next month. The reason being if they resolve their pertinent issues, then the Friars have an excellent chance of playing October baseball.