Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports that the Padres are “closing in on a deal” with free agent reliever Fernando Rodney.
Rodney posted a 5.68 ERA in 51 innings for the Mariners to begin last season, but then turned things around following a late-August trade to the Cubs. He logged 12 innings for Chicago down the stretch with a 0.75 ERA and 15/4 K/BB ratio, which was enough to convince the Padres he’s still a viable late-inning option at age 39.
San Diego traded away closer Craig Kimbrel and setup man Joaquin Benoit while also shifting Brandon Maurer to the rotation, so Rodney has a chance to claim the closer role with a strong spring training performance. He saved a league-leading 48 games for the Mariners in 2014 and calling Petco Park home should help with his occasional struggles to keep the ball in the ballpark.