Mets Trade Francisco Rodriguez to Brewers

Added on Jul 13, 2011 by Scott in

MLB

While the All-Stars were busy playing last night’s game, the powers that be with the Mets and Brewers were finalizing a trade. Closer Francisco Rodriguez was shipped from New York to Milwaukee for cash and two players to be named later. With the July 31st trade deadline looming, this deal kicked off what should be a hectic two weeks as contenders look to bolster their rosters.

The Brewers were in need of a quality setup man for closer John Axford and are pleased to get a pitcher with K-Rod’s impressive resume.

“Francisco has been one of the best relievers in the game for many years,” Brewers general manager Doug Melvin said in a statement. “He is a high-quality arm who will be a tremendous asset to our bullpen as we prepare for the final months of the regular season and playoffs.”

Rodriguez has seen a decline in his save numbers since joining the Mets in 2009. He set the single-season record with 62 in 2008 while with the Angels. In two and half years in the Big Apple, he posted 83 stops and 18 blown saves. In ten major league campaigns, he has notched 291 saves with a career 2.54 ERA.

The 29-year-old is a four-time All-Star and still capable of throwing heat. He’s not the dominant closer he was in Anaheim, but he brings a veteran presence with playoff experience to a young Brewers bullpen. The problem is he wants to be the finisher. A rift in the clubhouse is possible if he doesn’t get his way.

Milwaukee is tied for first in the NL Central. This move clearly signifies they are loading up to earn only their second trip to the postseason in the last 30 years. They last reached the playoffs in 2008 and were eliminated by the eventual World Series-winning Phillies.

The Mets, who are hovering around .500, might not be done with trades. Slugger Carlos Beltran is rumored to be on the block.

Source: ESPN.com