While he knows it's unlikely, former All-Star closer Fernando Rodney wants another big league opportunity.
Since last appearing in the majors back in 2019, Rodney has been bouncing around various leagues in the Dominican Republic and Mexico. We just wrote about him recently for playing in the Dominican Winter League.
In a great piece in 'The Athletic' on Thursday, Rodney says he wants another big league chance and that he wants to play until the age of 50.
“I’m trying to get to 50,” Rodney said flatly, before bellowing out a laugh. Even he knows how ridiculous it sounds. “That’s my guess right now. I still touch 95, 94, 93, 92 when I want. I think there can be three more years.
“I want to reach there, then see how I feel.”
The article discusses many reasons why Rodney still plays, including his love of the game, the confidence in his abilities, and his desire to become the all-time saves leader among Dominican-born players. He's two shy of tying Francisco Cordero.
Rodney spent parts of 17 years in the majors with the Tigers, Angels, Rays, Mariners, Cubs, Padres, Marlins, Diamondbacks, Twins, A's and Nationals.
He was a three-time All-Star who amassed those 327 career saves. He led baseball in saves in 2014 with 48 for the Mariners. Lifetime, he went 48-71 with a 3.80 ERA. He pitched in 951 career games and also was part of the 2019 World Series team for the Nationals.
One of the most fun personalities in baseball, Rodney also represented the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, helping them win the Gold Medal in 2013.
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