The Baltimore Orioles have added to their bullpen acquiring reliever Francisco Rodriguez (K-Rod) from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for Minor League infielder Nick Delmonico.
After a disappointing 2012 campaign, Rodriguez has again become a top reliever in 2013. He is 10 for 10 in save opportunities for the Brewers and has put up a miniscule 1.09 ERA in 24.2 innings. His addition gives the Orioles another power arm at the back of their bullpen and they are likely to use Rodriguez in the role of a setup man for closer Jim Johnson.
“I think he’s the kind of guy that can be a difference-maker,” Brewers general manager Doug Melvin said. “When you get into postseason or you get into pennant races in August and September, you always need more than one guy that can pitch in the ninth inning. He’s capable of doing that.”
Rodriguez was clearly pleased to be leaving a struggling Milwaukee club with nothing to play for in the second half, in order to join a Baltimore club that is right in the thick of the race in the American League.
“We’re not playing for (anything) here. But going there now, every game is going to count. I’ve got to be on top of my game now and help them out,” Rodriguez said.
Delmonico, 20, has spent the season with Single-A Frederick in the Carolina League. In 262 at bats this season, he has hit 13 home runs with an .822 OPS. Delmonico was the
“He’s a player that’s got good baseball instincts. He’s known for being a very good hitter. He comes from a baseball background,” Melvin said.
The Orioles have moved Nolan Reimold to the 60-day disabled list to make room on the 40-man roster for Rodriguez. They still need to clear a spot for him on the 25-man roster before tomorrow’s game.
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