LAKE ELSINOR, Calif. – Given the start of closer Fernando Rodney of the Arizona Diamondbacks, pundits and club officials began to think early of his fate and future. With an ERA over 11 runs per nine innings in the beginning weeks of the season, Rodney was an adventure with each appearance.
Plus, his age of 40 did not endear critics. Given the benchmark of 45 saves from a closer for a contender, many worried if Rodney could reach that criteria and help the Diamondbacks remain competition in the National League West division race.
Though Rodney performed better through May, and nearly cut his ERA in half, the concerns continue.