Fernando Rodney keeps plugging away

It would be easy to imagine that former Oakland A’s reliever Fernando Rodney had retired. He has not appeared in the majors since 2019, a rough year that was capped off by a surprising run to a championship with the Nationals. While he was in the Astros’ alternate camp in 2020, he was unable to return to the majors, seemingly marking the end of his career.

But Rodney is not willing to hang up the cleats just yet. He is continuing to plug away, pitching in the Dominican Winter League as he looks for another chance at the majors.

Fernando Rodney keeps mowing down the opposition

Typically, the winter leagues are a place for younger players to go to improve their skills or for players to get ready for the season. For the 44 year old Rodney, it is a place for hope, a place where, if he performs well enough, he could get another chance at the majors.

He has certainly done his part. Rodney posted a 3.38 ERA and a 1.063 WHiP in his 16 innings for the Leones del Escogido, striking out 11 batters with five walks. This comes after an impressive showing in the Mexican League where he notched 16 saves while posting a 1.80 ERA and a 1.000 WHiP over his 30 innings, striking out 40 batters with eight walks.

Rodney will likely get a chance to continue his career in another league. It would not be a surprise if the Toros de Tijuana, his team in 2021, offered him another deal. He could be an asset in Mexico, or potentially across the Pacific as well.

But Rodney may be able to be an asset stateside also. Teams are desperate to find help in the bullpen and will look virtually anywhere for a viable arm. Rodney certainly appeared rejuvenated after what was essentially a year off and could help a major league roster.

Former Oakland A’s pitcher Fernando Rodney is still getting outs. If that continues, maybe the next ones he records will be in the majors.