Tampa Bay Rays Sticking With Closer Fernando Rodney For Now

There are no jobs more fickle in professional sports than that of a Major League closer. You certainly are allowed a hiccup here or there, but for the most part, only a small handful have any type of job security which is something Tampa Bay Ray closer Fernando Rodney is in the process of finding out.

Rodney, who saved 48 games for the Rays last season has struggled this season but, no worries says Ray manager Joe Maddon – he’s not ready to be concerned. Well, at least not yet….

Per the Tampa Bay Times:

"“I’m not really concerned yet,” said Maddon. “I’m not running away from Fernando. We’ll get him right.”"

For Rodney, it’s a no win situation as the dreaded “vote of confidence” almost is always the first sign of death, though, I’m personally inclined to believe Maddon in this instance despite Rodeny’s struggles.

The 36-year-old arm is coming off a game where he walked four and allowed a bases clearing double to Boston’s Will Middlebrooks, bringing his season ERA to a eye gouging 5.28. Still, despite walking 15 batters in just over 15 innings, Rodney is missing bats as opposing hitters are struggling at a .211 clip.

Rodney has three blown saves in ten chances, this after blowing two in 50 opportunities last year.