The Angels made their second big free agent signing by coming to terms with Fernando Rodney on a two year/$11 million dollar contract:Angels General Manager Tony Reagins did a little last-minute Christmas shopping today. And while he didn't get exactly what he wanted to put under the tree, he's pretty happy with what he did get -- hard-throwing reliever Fernando Rodney, who set a franchise record by converting 37 of 38 save opportunities for the Detroit Tigers last season.I am normally a huge fan of Angels GM Tony Reagins, but I'm not a fan of this deal at all. As I've outlined, there is far too much risk involved with this deal even though Rodney does bring some skills to the table.
Rodney, a 32-year-old free agent, agreed in principle to a two-year, $11-million contract to provide depth at the back of an already-deep bullpen that will return major league saves leader Brian Fuentes.
It wasn't, however, the perfect gift. That's because Rodney's 4.40 earned-run average last season was the highest among American League relievers with at least 20 saves. Plus, he is 4-17 with a 4.48 ERA over the past three seasons. And in 2007 and 2008, he missed 20 weeks with tendinitis in his pitching arm.
Risk:
- Two years for Fernando Rodney. Really?
- Almost $6 million annually is a lot to pay for a set up man, let alone a mediocre one like Rodney
- ERA has not been lower than 4 since 2006
- Injury history
- Career WHIP of 1.42
- Lacks control (41 walks last season)
- Sure Rodney has closing experience, but that doesn't mean he was a quality closer.
- Closing experience
- Great arm
- Gives the Angels another option to close should Fuentes struggle again
- Can Fuentes and Rodney become a productive 1-2 punch late in games?
