By Eric Denton – AngelsWin.com Senior Writer
In 2009 for the Detroit Tigers, Rodney saved 37 out of 38 games, Rodney led the league in save percentage and games finished, held opposing hitters to a .207 batting average and .366 slugging percentage with runners in scoring position, and had a 1.40 ground ball-to-fly ball ratio, which ranked first among free-agent closers.
It is currently unclear if Rodney will be replacing Brian Fuentes as closer in 2010 or will serve as a set-up man joining Scot Shields, Jason Bulger and Kevin Jepsen in the middle innings.
Fuentes lead the league in saves in 2009 with 48 but also blew six saves. He was particularly shaky during the second half of the season 4.81 era, 1.61 ERA with more walks (15) than strikeouts (12).
Fuentes post season performance wasn’t reassuring, blowing the save in Game 2 of the ALCS, giving up a game tying home run to Alex Rodriguez. He did save Game 5 but only after getting himself out of a bases loaded jam. In 4 post-season innings he walks 4 and struck out 3.
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