When last we saw Fernando Rodney in the majors, the former Oakland A's castoff was earning a ring with the Washington Nationals.
While he was signed by the Astros and spent some time in their alternate training site, he never returned to the majors. Considering that he is now 45 years old, it would have been fair to assume that he quietly retired, having faded into the distance.
Fernando Rodney still shooting his arrows
That is not the case. It turns out that Rodney has been pitching in the Mexican League for the past two years while spending the offseason in the Dominican Winter League. He has continued to pitch well in Mexico, waiting for his chance to return to a major league roster.
Based on his performance for Gigantes del Cibao, he deserves that chance. Rodney has posted an impressive 1.35 ERA and a 1.200 WHiP over his 20 innings. He notched eight saves while striking out 19 batters with 11 walks, offsetting his spotty command by allowing just 13 hits without a homer.
He is not someone that would be a threat for the ninth inning at the major league level these days. And one has to wonder if he can get major league batters out. However, given his production in the Mexican League and the Dominican Winter League, Rodney would certainly be worth a look on a minor league deal with an invitation to the major league portion of spring training. Who knows - maybe he has another act left in him at the major league level as well.
Former Oakland A's pitcher Fernando Rodney is still pitching well in the Dominican Winter League. Maybe he can get one more chance at the majors.