5 Mariners that Need to Step Up in the 2nd Half

Jun 2, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Fernando Rodney (56) walks back to the dugout after the final out of the ninth inning against the New York Yankees at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Fernando Rodney – RP

The feel good story of the season in 2014 was Fernando Rodney and his magical arrow. Things have gone south in a hurry for the M’s closer this year however, and many fans are calling for Rodney’s release. I have always doubted his ability to duplicate his incredible numbers from last season, but I did not anticipate such a steep regression.

Rodney is having a terrible season. He has a 2-3 record with a 5.50 ERA and 16 saves across 37 appearances in 2015. The 38-year-old right-hander has tallied 28 punch outs and issued 17 free passes. The most disturbing stat has to be the 6 home runs he has allowed. Rodney is allowing 1.544 walks/hits per inning, and that is simply not good enough. He has never been described as reliable on the hill, but he has hit a new low this season.

Personally, I see no reason why the M’s should have to rely on Rodney moving forward. He has been completely inept in the closer role, and he shows little care on the mound. However, McClendon has made it abundantly clear that he feels Rodney is the only true option for Seattle in the 9th inning. I think this is ludicrous, but Lloyd is the man at the top (for now).

I do not expect a significant improvement from Fernando Rodney this season. Seattle literally has no chance of playing October baseball if F-Rod continues to give away leads late in games. I hope Carson Smith will get another shot to close soon, but I think it will take a few more blown saves before Lloyd makes the change.

Next: Lloyd McClendon