The Washington Nationals signed closer Fransisco Rodriguez late Monday to a minor league contract, according to multiplereports.
Desperate for bullpen help, the Nationals will have Rodriguez report to the Nationals’ minor league facility in West Palm, Florida, and then likely join the Nationals’ Triple-A Syracuse affiliate.
Rodriguez, also known as “K-Rod,” was released by the Detroit Tigers last Friday. At 35, his best days appear to be behind him, especially considering his 7.82 ERA. In his prime, Rodriguez was one of the best closers in baseball and is fourth all-time in saves.
But it’s a shot the Nationals are willing to take if he shows enough promise in Syracuse.