It’s believed the Cubs would like to add another reliever or two to the roster in the coming weeks prior to pitchers and catchers reporting to Mesa on Feb. 19. The Cubs were one of three teams showing the most interest in veteran closer Fernando Rodney last month and could still be interested in re-signing him.
According to Nick Cafardo, the Cubs have “talked about bringing him back,” the Padres have shown interest in Rodney and the Blue Jays “have also kicked the tires” on signing Fernando Rodney. Jon Heyman reported Rodney remains on the Padres radar. San Diego could be the best fit for Rodney if he is looking to rebuild his value as a closer.
Mike Berardino indicated a month ago Rodney would prefer to sign with a team in which he could close games.
The Cubs acquired Rodney from the Mariners at the end of August after Seattle cut ties and designated him for assignment.
Rodney appeared in 14 games for the Cubs and did a decent job after being reunited with Joe Maddon. The 38-year old Rodney was 2-0 with a 0.75 ERA and 1.00 WHIP (four runs, one earned, on eight hits with four walks and 15 strikeouts in 12 innings).
Rodney really struggled with the Mariners last season a year after posting a 1-6 record in 69 games with 48 saves, a 2.85 ERA and 1.34 WHIP that included 61 hits allowed in 66 1/3 innings with 28 walks and 76 strikeouts. Rodney was 5-5 with a 5.68 ERA and 1.50 WHIP in 54 appearances for the Mariners before being DFA’d.
Fernando Rodney finished the 2015 season with a 7-5 record in 68 games between the Mariners and Cubs with a 4.74 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and 16 saves. Rodney allowed 36 runs, 33 earned, on 59 hits with 29 walks and 58 strikeouts in 62 2/3 innings.
After being paid $7 million in both 2014 and 2015, its unknown at this point what Rodney is looking to sign for this off-season.
Fernando Rodney turns 39 in March.