In hindsight, the addition of Richard Rodriguez, who most thought would have the most significant impact of last year’s trade deadline acquisitions, is probably the only decision Alex Anthopoulos regrets. His numbers on the surface — 3.12 ERA in 27 appearances — weren’t abysmal, but underneath that was a gaudy 6.17 FIP, which led to the Braves leaving him off the postseason roster.
The decision ended up panning out, and the Braves opted to non-tender Rodriguez this offseason. Perhaps this is another reason why: the former Pittsburgh Pirate will be forced to serve an 80-game suspension to start the season for the use of PEDs.
MLB announces three players suspended for PED violations. 80 games each for:
free agent infielder Danny Santana
free agent infielder José Rondón
free agent pitcher Richard RodrÃguez— Britt Ghiroli (@Britt_Ghiroli) April 4, 2022
I have to imagine this is why Rodriguez was unable to find a new team this offseason. Even if he ended the season poorly in Atlanta, his previous work over the last three seasons should have warranted him multiple offers.
Ironically, Rodriguez wasn’t the only former Brave suspended for PEDs. Among them was Danny Santana, who spent part of 2017 and 2018 in Atlanta.
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Photo: Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire
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