Former Brave Richard Rodriguez has finally found a new home, inking a minor-league deal with the Marlins.
The Miami #Marlins have agreed to terms with former Pittsburg Pirates and Atlanta Braves closer Richard RodrÃguez.
It is a minor league deal.
Per, Marlins
— Kevin Barral (@kevin_barral) February 28, 2023
The Braves acquired Rodriguez during the 2021 season at the trade deadline, sending the Pirates Bryse Wilson in return. At the time, it was an exciting move. Rodriguez had been one of the better closers in the league, and the Braves were desperate to bolster the bullpen.
It seemed like a slam dunk, but it didn’t work out that way. Rodriguez struggled once he landed in Atlanta; so badly, that he didn’t even make the playoff roster. Thankfully, the Braves were able to reach their ultimate goal without him, winning the World Series on the back of a bullpen that was nearly unhittable during the postseason.
Rodriguez had multiple years remaining on his deal when the Braves traded for him, but they opted to release him instead of going to arbitration. It wasn’t all too puzzling given his lack of success, but it was later revealed that he would have to serve an 80-game suspension for PEDs, which could have also factored into the decision.
Rodriguez has yet to return to the majors since his suspension, but this will be his first opportunity with the Marlins.
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Photographer: Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire
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