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MLB Trade Rumors: Five relief pitcher targets for the Chicago Cubs

By Dan Schmelzer

Jun 6, 2016; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Andrew Miller (48) pitches against the Los Angeles Anglels during the eighth inning at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees defeated the Angels 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 6, 2016; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Andrew Miller (48) pitches against the Los Angeles Anglels during the eighth inning at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees defeated the Angels 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Fernando Rodney
May 11, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Fernando Rodney, left, reacts next to first baseman Wil Myers, right, after a 1-0 win against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Fernando Rodney

While he is not a left-hander, reuniting with Fernando Rodney would make a lot of sense for the Cubs prior to the trade deadline. The Cubs swung a deal with the Seattle Mariners for Rodney last season, acquiring the right-handed reliever for essentially nothing.

Rodney had immediate success with the Cubs, putting together a 0.75 ERA and 11.3 strikeouts per nine innings in 14 appearances. He became an important part of the Cubs’ bullpen down the stretch, and I think getting him back in the fold would make a lot of sense.

The Cubs lost out on Rodney this offseason, as he chose to join the San Diego Padres via free agency. Rodney has taken over as the Padres’ closer this season and has been lights out, literally.

Through 25 appearances with the Padres, Rodney has yet to give up an earned run, and has only allowed 11 base hits. He has been incredible all season long, and his 28.4% strikeout rate helps back-up his performance.

Rodney is unlikely to remain perfect, but he obviously still has life left in his arm. The Cubs would not acquire him to close for them, but he could be an extremely effective set-up man or middle reliever for the team.

The 29-42 last-place Padres have no use for a dominant 39-year-old closer. Rodney is extremely likely to be moved prior to the deadline, and the Cubs would certainly make a lot of sense.

Next: 2. Fernando Abad

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