Detroit Tigers finally have news on Eduardo Rodriguez
Eduardo Rodriguez has been the subject of a great deal of speculation over the past few weeks. He had abruptly left the Detriot Tigers with the team unable to get in contact with him. All that was eventually known is that he had family issues that required his attention.
The Tigers were finally able to get in contact with Rodriguez recently. According to Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, not only have the two sides been communicating, but Rodriguez is expected to return to the majors by late August.
Eduardo Rodriguez still large part of Detroit Tigers’ plans going forward
It is understandable that Rodriguez has been viewed as a disappointment. Not only did he disappear without an explanation, but he had struggled during his time on the mound. He had posted a 4.38 ERA and a 1.333 WHiP in his 39 innings, striking out 34 batters with 17 walks in the first season of his five year, $77 million deal.
Rodriguez may be viewed as the poster boy for the Tigers’ struggles more than any other player. It is a somewhat unfair assessment as no one can know what was going on when he left Detroit so abruptly. It is easy to speculate as to the why, but whatever happened was clearly important to Rodriguez.
It is also a positive sign that he is expected to return this season. His personal situation may be resolved to the point where he can continue his professional career. Having him return at the end of August, although the Tigers are clearly out of contention, can be a springboard for the 2023 season.
The Tigers are clearly hoping to end their rebuild soon. Their moves in the offseason, including bringing Rodriguez on board, were designed to win in the near future. Getting Rodriguez back, and in the right mindset, will be a step in that direction. Maybe the timeline moves to 2023, but the Tigers need Rodriguez if they are going to take that step forward.
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The Detroit Tigers expect Eduardo Rodriguez to return at the end of August. He remains an important part of their long term plans.