MLB trade rumors: Blue Jays mulling K-Rod, Soriano for closer role

Francisco-Rodriguez-012815-Getty-FTR.jpg

THE RUMOR:  The Blue Jays are in contact with representatives for multiple free-agent relievers, including Francisco Rodriguez, Rafael Soriano and Burke Badenhop.

REPORTED BY: Fox Sports .

MORE: New faces, new places | Brewers looking to re-sign K-Rod  | Nats' latest move spells big trouble for rest of NL

THE DETAILS:  With onetime closer Casey Janssen heading to Washington to be a set-up man for the Nationals, the Jays want someone other than listed closer Brett Cecil (six career saves) finishing games.

LAST SEASON:  A 2014 All-Star, Rodriguez was dominant in the Brewers' bullpen, saving 44 games while posting a 3.04 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 73:18 K:BB ratio in 68 innings. Soriano, on the other hand, struggled with injuries and lost his closer's job to Drew Storen late in the season. Soriano posted an ugly 7.56 ERA and 1.56 WHIP in September and October. Badenhop had a 2.29 ERA in 70 2/3 innings as a middle reliever for the Red Sox.

SN'S TAKE:  The Blue Jays are serious about adding an experienced closer, so it is no surprise they are talking to the top two remaining free-agent closers. They also have talked with the Phillies about acquiring Jonathan Papelbon. Rodriguez, 33, seems like the best fit. Soriano, 35, has 13 blown saves over the past two seasons. Badenhop is the youngest of the three, but he has little experience as a closer (four career saves). What he does have going for him is his familiarity with the AL East (he pitched for the Rays in 2012).

Author(s)