MLB Rumors: Baltimore Orioles Target Free Agent Closer Fernando Rodney And Reach Out To Francisco Rodriguez

With Major League Baseball free agent rumors continuing to pick up steam, fans across the wide spectrum of professional baseball remain up-to-date with the latest news regarding their favorite teams and players. Multiple big names including Jacoby Ellsbury, Brian McCann, Curtis Granderson and Shin-Soo Choo have already inked lucrative deals with new clubs but other high-profile players remain on the open market. Various needs exist up and down each roster and with Spring Training 2014 creeping closer and closer, expect the free agency period to remain a hot topic of discussion.

While many clubs will be in the market for power bats and run producers, others will be seeking added help in the pitching department. Free agent names like Matt Garza, Johan Santana, Ervin Santana, Grant Balfour and Francisco Rodriguez continue to garner attention but another big name remains the focus of the free agent pool. According to multiple sources, the Baltimore Orioles are targeting former Tampa Bay Rays closer Fernando Rodney. After backing out of a contract with Grant Balfour due to concerns over the relievers physical, the O's are now in the market for Rodney while they've also been in contact with Francisco Rodriguez.

Closing out games for Tampa Bay the last two seasons, Rodney has recorded a total of 85 saves although control issues became a problem in 2013. Following a 2012 campaign that saw him record 48 saves along with a 0.60 ERA, Rodney's earned run average rose to 3.38 in 2013 while he only captured 37 saves. The 36-year-old also walked 36 batters last season, a big rise from his total of 15 the year prior. Though the Orioles will certainly take those numbers into consideration, the club also realizes that Rodney has extensive experience in the American League East, something that should help a Baltimore team looking to compete with the Rays, Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees.

If the O's can't come to terms with the free agent closer, sources indicate that their back-up plan might be former Baltimore pitcher Francisco Rodriguez. The 31-year-old appeared in 23 games last season for the Orioles, posting a 2-1 record and 4.50 ERA in 22 innings. A four-time All-Star, Rodriguez could serve as a solid addition if he's able to return close to his previous form that saw him become a dominant figure with the LAA Angels and New York Mets.