Washington Nationals Add Francisco Rodriguez “K-Rod”, Boosting The Back End Of The Bullpen

By Jordan Long

The Washington Nationals added depth to their struggling bullpen with the signing of Francisco Rodriguez, “K-Rod”. Rodriguez agreed to a minor league contract and will report to the minor league facility in West Palm Beach, Florida. This is in hopes of boosting the backend of the bullpen.

Rodriguez is one of the top closers in baseball today. He is in his 16^th year. Last year he was “lights out” for the Detroit Tigers saving 44 games but he did have 5 blown saves with an ERA of 3.24. The Tigers were hoping Rodriguez would be even better this season. That didn’t happen. He struggled to save games with only 7. Rodriguez couldn’t hold the lead in 6 games. His record is subpar at 2-5 with a 7.82 ERA. The Tigers felt it was time to let him go so he could have a fresh start.

The Nationals have one of the worst bullpens in the league. They have a combined ERA of 4.98 which ranks 30^th in Major League Baseball. The only team worse is the Detroit Tigers. This was much needed help. Even with their awful bullpen they are still leading the National League West by 8.5 games over Atlanta.

According to ESPN, Manager of the Nationals Dusty Baker said, “It depends if he’s still K-Rod. That’s what it boils down to. I’ll take Sandy Koufax, but he may not be the same Sandy Koufax.”

The Nationals need a reliable closer. They tried three this season, Koda Glover, Shawn Kelley, and Blake Treinen. Glover is on the 10 day disabled list but recorded 8 saves for the Nationals which leads the team.

Rodriguez when he is called up will be the closer for the Nationals. He has the ability to go out and pitch in the later innings to save games. This boosts the Nationals bullpen.

The problem for Rodriguez this year has been his pitching location. He leaves the ball up in the zone and that has created easy hits for the opponents. Some of them have been homeruns with a total of 9. Rodriguez will work with his command in minor league baseball.

Adding Rodriguez proves that the Nationals are serious about not only winning the National League East, but going far in the playoffs. They are in a win now mode. Hopefully this move pans out for them, not only the rest of the regular season, but the postseason.

What do you think of the Nationals adding Francisco Rodriguez?