Baseball - Fernando Rodney Signs Incentive Laden Tw

A few days after agreeing to a one year deal, the Tigers and reliever Fernando Rodney have agreed to a two year contract. The contract is worth $2.7 million and gives the 29 year old setup man and part time closer job security.

This winter, Rodney was eligible for arbitration for the first time after playing a full Major League season in 2006 with no health issues. He appeared 63 times for the team. His .196 batting average was ranked the sixth lowest among American League relievers with at least 54 innings pitched. Rodney led the team with seven relief victories. However, non of them came in blown saves. In September 2006, he had a 3.20 ERA and finished the year at 3.52.
In the ALCS, Rodney pitched 3 2/3 scoreless innings against Oakland and then pitched a 4 for the Tigers’ 5 World Series games. He gave up 2 earned runs in 4 innings against the Cardinals and 2 unearned runs came as a result of throwing error in game 4.
This winter, Rodney is the third Tiger to agree to a multi year deal. It is known that President / general manager Dave Dombrowski usually prefers one year contracts unless there is clear incentive for keeping players for another year. However, Rodney’s case there was a mutual interest in going for a multi year contract at the end of the season because of rising salaries for relievers and Rodney’s elbow surgery in 2004.
The new deal of 2 years lowers Rodney salary to $1 million this year. However, he is assured $1.7 million in 2008. Rodney also get incentives if he fills un at closer. The increasing incentives are based on games finished. He will get a partial bonus for 30 games and up to $1 million for finishing 55 games this year.