Fernando Rodney in 2010 with the Angels

2:55 PM: The finalized terms of the Fernando Rodney, 34, contract have been released. Rodney will reportedly make $1.75 MM in 2012, with a $2.5 MM option in 2013. There is also $25o K buyout in his contract.

My first thought? I’m not a huge fan of one year contracts, especially with players who, as one Angels fan put it, should “save everyone their time. Next time just walk up and place the ball on a tee.” Rodney, who has some post-season experience with the 2006 Tigers, appeared in 32 innings in 2011, posting a 4.50 ERA with more walks (at 28) than strike-outs (at 26). Ouch.

After careful consideration though, I’m starting to warm up to the idea that this could be a good deal. From a financial aspect, if Rodney does not perform well in 2012, the $1.75 MM is a small chunk of change in what can be considered somewhat of a low risk investment.

He does have a very good change-up, a 95 MPH fastball, and a 49% (50+% in 2011) ground ball rate. If the Rays can straighten out his linger control issues, Rodney represents a break of sorts for Kyle Farnsworth and Joel Peralta, last seasons bullpen workhorses who combined pitched in 124.4 innings. Also, from a long term perspective, he could be an anchor in the 2013 bullpen, assuming the Rays don’t offer either Peralta or Farnsworth a new contract after the 2012 season. Rodney has the potential to be a very good back end, Grant Balfour-like, reliever assuming he can keep his control in check. In the very least, he will be effective in niche of non-leverage situations.

Steve Slowinski of DRaysbay put things into perspective well,

The Rays obviously see something in Rodney, and they seem to strongly believe they can turn him around. He’s a gamble, for sure, but I’ll trust the Rays’ staff on this one. If they think they can fix Rodney, then I’m all for it.

6:56 AM According to DRaysbay, the Rays have signed, or are close to signing, the imposing former RHP reliever from the Angels, Fernando Rodney. The deal is reportedly for one year, and worth somewhere in the $2 MM range. I’ll have more on this later. Until then, check out the DRaysbay piece here.

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