Eduardo Rodríguez
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MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 29 2025Rodriguez allowed a run on four hits and three walks while striking out six over 5.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Marlins on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez threw 108 pitches (63 strikes) in the outing, but the Diamondbacks' bullpen cost him his chance at a second consecutive win. After returning from a shoulder injury, Rodriguez was sharp in June, allowing seven runs (six earned) over 27.2 innings while adding a 28:9 K:BB in that span. It's a significant improvement from where he was at before the injury -- his early struggles are still evident in his season-long numbers, as he has a 5.13 ERA, 1.56 WHIP and 80:27 K:BB over 72 innings across 14 starts. The southpaw is set for a home start versus the Royals next week.
Jun 23 2025Rodriguez (3-4) earned the win Monday against the White Sox, allowing five hits and two walks over six scoreless innings. He struck out 10. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw notched his third game of double-digit Ks and third quality start of the season with this 92-pitch performance. Rodriguez entered this month with an unsightly 7.05 ERA; however, things were better under the hood as evidenced by a 4.28 FIP and 10.5 K/9. He has been much improved so far in June, pitching to a 2.05 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 22:6 K:BB across 22 innings. The 32-year-old is scheduled to take his next turn in the rotation in Arizona's home series against Miami this weekend.
Jun 18 2025Rodriguez (2-4) took the loss Wednesday against the Blue Jays, allowing two runs (one earned) on six hits and three walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez got off to a rocky start, giving up a leadoff homer to Bo Bichette in the first inning. He'd manage to settle in, holding the Jays to one unearned run over his final 3.2 innings, though Arizona couldn't overcome the early deficit in an 8-1 defeat. It's been an up-and-down year thus far for Rodriguez, who sports a 5.93 ERA with a 1.62 WHIP and 64:22 K:BB across 12 starts (60.2 innings). The left-hander is tentatively lined up to face the White Sox on the road in his next outing.
Jun 11 2025Rodriguez (2-3) earned the win against the Mariners on Wednesday, allowing two runs on six hits and one walk with five strikeouts over 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez needed just 81 pitches to work into the seventh inning, earning his first win since April 27. The southpaw generated 14 swinging strikes and has allowed four earned runs over 11.1 innings since returning from the injured list Friday. He'll carry a 6.27 ERA, 1.59 WHIP and 60:19 K:BB across 56 innings into a road matchup with the Blue Jays next week.
Jun 6 2025Rodriguez gave up two runs on six hits and no walks in five innings before Friday's game against the Reds was suspended in the seventh inning. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez worked rather efficiently in his first MLB start since May 14, throwing 48 of his 72 pitches for strikes while not issuing a free pass for only the second time in 2025. While he did match his second-lowest strikeout total of the year, the 32-year-old southpaw tossed at least five innings while yielding two runs or fewer for the third time over his 10 outings. Rodriguez has a strong 55:18 K:BB through 49.2 innings, but his 6.70 ERA and 1.65 WHIP have left a lot to be desired. He'll look improve his ratios his next time out versus the Mariners, which is slated for next week.
Jun 4 2025Rodriguez (shoulder) is with the team in Atlanta and scheduled to throw a bullpen session Wednesday, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This should be considered the in-between starts throwing session for Rodriguez, who is expected to be activated from the injured list this week for a start Friday in Cincinnati. He made a rehab start in the Arizona Complex League last Friday and is ready to return to a rotation that just lost Corbin Burnes (elbow). The left-hander's body of work is 2025 is not inspiring; Rodriguez was placed on the IL with a 7.05 ERA and one quality start among his nine outings.
Jun 1 2025Rodriguez (shoulder) is likely to return to the rotation this week, Nick Piecoro and Jose M. Romero of the Arizona Republic report. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Diamondbacks haven't announced plans for the left-hander, but Rodriguez threw 4.2 innings during a rehab start Friday in the Arizona Complex League. After Ryne Nelson was needed for four relief innings Saturday, Arizona manager Torey Lovullo confirmed the righty would be returned to the bullpen instead of making a scheduled start Tuesday, per Arizona Sports. Rodriguez could be set to return Friday in Cincinnati, as Arizona has already mapped out its pitching plans for a three-game set in Atlanta to begin the week, per Jody Jackson of Bally Sports Arizona.
May 31 2025Rodriguez (shoulder) allowed four runs (three earned) on three hits and one walk while striking out nine over 4.2 innings Friday in a rehab start in the rookie-level Arizona Complex League. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After throwing a simulated game Monday, Rodriguez took the hill Friday for his first appearance in a formal game setting since landing on the 15-day injured list a little more than two weeks ago. The left-hander's nine strikeouts were positive, but all three hits he allowed were home runs. The Diamondbacks will assess the performance before considering the next step for Rodriguez, who can be activated at any time.
May 29 2025Rodriguez (shoulder) is expected to start in a game at the Arizona Complex League on Friday, Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez is coming off a 55-pitch simulated game last Saturday and will get a chance to build upon that Friday in the ACL. The left-hander could rejoin the Diamondbacks rotation in time for next week's road series in Atlanta, although the team has not confirmed if additional starts (if any) may be required. That will likely be determined following Friday's outing.
May 26 2025Rodriguez (shoulder) is expected to make another rehab appearance before being activated from the 15-day injured list, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez emerged from Saturday's 55-pitch simulated game feeling strong, but the club wants to see him stretch out a bit further before bringing him back from the injured list. The team has yet to disclose whether the southpaw will be sent out on a minor-league rehab stint or if he'll toss another sim game later in the week before presumably being activated during the upcoming road trip, which begins June 3 in Atlanta.
May 19 2025Rodriguez (shoulder) began a throwing program from 90 feet Monday, Alex Weiner of ArizonaSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was placed on the 15-day injured list Friday with left shoulder inflammation, but his ability to begin a throwing program just three days later is a positive sign. The left-hander is eligible to return to action May 31, and it's not outside the realm of possibility that he's activated after a minimum stay on the IL.
May 16 2025The Diamondbacks placed Rodriguez on the 15-day injured list Friday due to left shoulder inflammation. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has given up four earned runs or more in four of his last five outings, and his left shoulder injury may have played a factor in those performances. He'll be shut down from throwing and undergo further tests and imaging, and the results will help the Diamondbacks determine a rehab program for the 32-year-old southpaw. With Rodriguez on the 15-day IL and Joe Mantiply optioned to Triple-A Reno, Arizona is bringing up Scott McGough and Christian Montes De Oca from Triple-A in corresponding moves.
May 14 2025Rodriguez came away with a no-decision in Wednesday's 8-7 win over the Giants, giving up four runs on five hits and three walks over four innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw didn't serve up a homer for the first time since April 17, but there wasn't much else encouraging about this performance from Rodriguez. He tossed 41 of 76 pitches for strikes before getting the hook, and he's been tagged for three or more runs in five straight trips to the mound, stumbling to a 9.93 ERA, 2.03 WHIP and 23:12 K:BB through 22.2 innings over that stretch, Rodriguez will try to right the ship in his next start, which is scheduled to come on the road early next week against the Dodgers.
May 9 2025Rodriguez allowed eight runs on nine hits and three walks while striking out three over 2.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Dodgers on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was spotted a 3-1 lead after one inning, but he couldn't slow down the Dodgers' offense. He left with Arizona down 8-3, but his offense was able to get him off the hook. While Rodriguez's work in March and early April was nothing special, he's just been plain bad lately with 20 runs allowed (19 earned) over his last 12 innings across three starts. That's a stretch that's seen him face the Mets, Phillies and Dodgers, which explains a lot of the southpaw's struggles. Overall, he's at a 7.30 ERA, 1.67 WHIP and 48:15 K:BB across 40.2 innings over eight starts. He's tentatively scheduled for a road start in pitcher-friendly San Francisco next week.
May 4 2025Rodriguez did not factor into the decision in Sunday's 11-9 extra-inning win over the Phillies, allowing four runs (three earned) on five hits and four walks with 10 strikeouts over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw notched his second double-digit strikeout performance of the season, producing 15 whiffs. Despite the solid number of Ks, Rodriguez struggled to find the zone, issuing a season-worst four free passes and throwing just 57 strikes out of 101 total pitches. Through 38 innings, the 32-year-old's ERA now stands at 5.92; however, things have been better under the hood with a 4.03 FIP and 45:12 K:BB. Rodriguez is currently scheduled to make his next outing against the Dodgers at home this weekend.
Apr 30 2025Rodriguez (1-3) took the loss against the Mets on Tuesday, allowing eight runs on nine hits and a walk while striking out one in four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was tagged for eight runs over three innings after tossing a scoreless first. The Mets homered off him in each of those three frames, accounting for five of their runs scored. Rodriguez has given up nine-plus hits in two of his last three starts, and he now holds the third-worst ERA among qualifiers at 6.06. The 32-year-old lefty lines up for another tough matchup on the road versus the Phillies this weekend.
Apr 17 2025Rodriguez (1-2) struck out nine and earned the win Thursday in Miami after giving up three runs (one earned) on 10 hits and no walks over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A pair of errors led to two unearned runs for the Marlins, which was fortunate for Rodriguez's line given how many baserunners he allowed. The left-hander didn't issue a walk for the first time this season, but there was still some poor control with a pair of wild pitches. Rodriguez surrendered seven runs in his first two starts of the season but has settled in during his past two outings with just three earned runs, though the 16 hits he's allowed remain a concern.
Apr 12 2025Rodriguez (0-2) took the loss Friday as the Diamondbacks were downed 7-0 by the Brewers, giving up three runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks over 6.1 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran lefty delivered his first quality start of 2025 on 95 pitches (62 strikes), but it wasn't good enough as Arizona's bats got completely stymied by Jose Quintana. Rodriguez has a 4.86 ERA through his first three outings of the season, but his 1.20 WHIP and 20:6 K:BB through 16.2 innings might be a better reflection of how effective he's been. Rodriguez will look for his first win of the campaign in his next trip to the mound, which is scheduled to come on the road next week in Miami.
Apr 5 2025Rodriguez (0-1) took the loss against the Nationals on Saturday, allowing four runs on five hits and one walk with 12 strikeouts over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez gave up three two-out runs in the first inning but settled in nicely from there, pounding the zone with 58 strikes on 90 pitches and racking up an impressive 12 punchouts. Though the results haven't quite clicked through his first two outings, the veteran southpaw looks healthy following an injury-plagued 2024 campaign. He'll carry a 6.10 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 17:4 K:BB over 10.1 innings into a home start against the Brewers next weekend.
Mar 30 2025Rodriguez did not factor into the decision Sunday against the Cubs, allowing three runs on three hits and three walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was solid for the most part Sunday, but two of the hits off him left the ballpark -- Dansby Swanson led off the second inning with a solo home run before Seiya Suzuki launched a two-run shot in the sixth. Rodriguez will look to limit the long ball in his next outing, currently lined up for next week in Washington. Injuries limited the left-hander to 10 starts (50 innings) in 2024, when he posted a 5.04 ERA with a 1.50 WHIP and 47:19 K:BB.
Mar 16 2025Rodriguez will make his next start Wednesday on a back field, Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports reports ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez tossed 3.2 dominant innings against the Reds on Friday, and the decision to hold him out of Cactus League competition for his next start does not indicate anything other than a scheduling issue. The club plans to start Jordan Montgomery on Wednesday, so Rodriguez will get his work in while maintaining his five-day schedule.
Mar 15 2025Rodriguez struck out six over 3.2 hitless and scoreless innings in Friday's spring start against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez retired all 11 batters he faced on 44 pitches (29 strikes) in his second Cactus League outing. The Reds played split-squad games Friday and did not have their best nine on the field, but Rodriguez was sharp and pleased with all his offerings. "Feel like everything (worked), it's one of those days you don't want to come out," Rodriguez told Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports. "Everything I was throwing was just going right where I wanted." He should get another two spring starts before taking his first turn in the regular season.
Mar 3 2025Rodriguez allowed one walk and struck out one over two scoreless innings in Sunday's spring start against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez cruised through his first Cactus League start, setting down the side in order in the first inning and working around a two-out walk in the second. He threw 31 pitches (18 strikes). The left-hander told Steve Gilbert of MLB.com following Sunday's outing that he threw all of his pitches and feels everything is right where he wants it to be, which suggests the pitcher will be ready to go come Opening Day. Rodriguez opened the 2024 season on the injured list due to a shoulder issue and was limited to just 10 starts in the first year of a four-year contract.
Mar 2 2025Rodriguez will make his Cactus League debut Sunday against the Rangers, Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez will be the last of Arizona's healthy starting pitchers to make his spring debut. Durability issues have crept into the left-hander's game heading into his age-32 season. Rodriguez made just 10 starts in 2024, the second time in three seasons with fewer than 20 starts.
Sep 28 2024Rodriguez allowed four hits and two walks while striking out three over 4.2 scoreless innings in a no-decision versus the Padres on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez failed to complete five innings for the fourth time over six starts in September. He was pulled at 62 pitches (41 strikes) Saturday, though it was likely due to him pitching into a jam that Kevin Ginkel was able to escape. Rodriguez concludes the regular season with a 5.04 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 47:19 K:BB over 50 innings across 10 starts. If the Diamondbacks are able to make the playoffs, it's unclear whether Rodriguez would work as a starter or a reliever.
Sep 23 2024Rodriguez (3-4) allowed five runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out eight over 4.2 innings to take the loss versus the Giants on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez gave up three home runs, including an inside-the-park one by Matt Chapman in the third inning that put the Giants ahead. The five runs allowed matched a season high for Rodriguez, and this was the third time he failed to complete five innings. He's now at a 5.56 ERA, 1.52 WHIP and 44:17 K:BB through 45.1 innings over nine starts. The southpaw is tentatively projected for one more start in the regular season, which would be at home versus the Padres.
Sep 18 2024Rodriguez (3-3) picked up the win Wednesday, giving up two runs on five hits and a walk over 6.1 innings in a 9-4 victory over the Rockies. He struck out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw navigated Coors Field to set a new season high in strikeouts, and the 11 K's were his best performance in that category since he fanned a dozen Phillies almost exactly five years ago, on Sept. 14, 2019. Rodriguez picked up his first win since Aug. 20 along with his first quality start of the year, and the 6.1 innings also represented his longest outing of the season. He didn't make his 2024 debut until Aug. 7 due to shoulder issues that cropped up in spring training, and while his 5.09 ERA, 1.45 WHIP and 36:14 K:BB through 40.2 innings aren't particularly impressive, he could be rounding into form just in time to help Arizona lock up a playoff spot. Rodriguez lines up to make his next start at home early next week against the Giants.
Sep 13 2024Rodriguez (2-3) allowed two runs on five hits and three walks while striking out seven over five innings to take the loss versus the Brewers on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has walked multiple batters in three straight starts, though he was able to get back to the five-inning mark after falling short in his previous two outings. The veteran southpaw's mistake Friday was a two-run home run by Rhys Hoskins in the fourth inning. Rodriguez is now at a 5.50 ERA, 1.54 WHIP and 25:13 K:BB through 34.1 innings over seven starts this season. He's projected to make his next start at Colorado.
Sep 8 2024Rodriguez (2-2) took the loss Saturday as the Diamondbacks were downed 11-5 by the Astros, giving up five runs (four earned) on seven hits and three walks over four innings. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw threw just 49 of his 88 pitches for strikes, and Houston batters got plenty of wood on the ones Rodriguez did get over the plate. The 31-year-old hasn't provided the boost to the Arizona rotation that the team was hoping for since he came off the IL in early August -- over six starts and 29.1 innings this season, he's stumbled to a 5.83 ERA, 1.53 WHIP and 18:10 K:BB. Rodriguez will look to turn things around in his next outing, which lines up to come at home next weekend against the Brewers.
Sep 2 2024Rodriguez (2-1) took the loss Monday against the Dodgers, allowing three runs on seven hits and two walks across four innings. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Monday's outing was Rodriguez's fifth of the season and marked his first time failing to complete five innings. The left-hander suffered his first loss of the year and yielded a two-run home run to Freddie Freeman in the third inning. Rodriguez has been serviceable since coming off the IL in early August, though his ERA has tumbled to 5.33 after 25.1 innings. He's on pace to face the Astros this weekend.
Aug 29 2024Rodriguez did not factor into the decision in a win over the Mets on Wednesday, allowing five runs on five hits and one walk over 5.1 innings while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was cruising early, producing four consecutive 1-2-3 innings to open the contest before issuing a walk to Brandon Nimmo to open the fifth. The lefty would go on to surrender hits to three of the next five batters, including a two-run homer from Harrison Bader as the Mets tied the game at 4-4. Rodriguez gave up a season-high five runs on the night while striking out five and walking one for the third-consecutive outing. He's now allowed at least three runs in three of his four starts since making his season debut in early August, though he's also managed to go at least five innings in every outing thus far.
Aug 20 2024Rodriguez (2-0) earned the win against the Marlins on Tuesday, allowing one run on six hits and one walk with five strikeouts across 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While he generated an unimpressive nine swinging strikes, Rodriguez tallied a season-high 100 pitches before being pulled with two men on in the sixth inning. The southpaw has completed at least five frames in each of his three outings this season and owns a 3.94 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 11:4 K:BB in that span. He appears to be fully stretched out despite skipping a rehab assignment and lines up to face the Mets at home next week.
Aug 14 2024Rodriguez did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's win over the Rockies, allowing three runs on six hits and a walk while striking out five over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez got through the first inning on just seven pitches but couldn't replicate the same success in the next two frames. The Rockies would string together all six of their hits against Rodriguez in the second and third, leading to three runs. The left-hander was able to settle back in and retire the last seven batters he faced before his day was done after throwing 83 pitches. He's now given up three runs in both starts since returning from a long-term absence due to a shoulder injury, though Tuesday he was able to keep the ball in the park and upped his strikeouts numbers while generating 11 whiffs. He's at a 5.06 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 6:3 K:BB in 10.2 innings and lines up to face the Marlins in a start next week.
Aug 7 2024Rodriguez (1-0) earned the win in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader versus the Guardians, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While he didn't have the strikeout pitch working Wednesday, Rodriguez was ultimately effective against a strong Cleveland lineup, making it through 5.2 innings on just 65 pitches. Rodriguez, who had been sidelined with a shoulder injury since spring training, joined the Diamondbacks after pitching to a 3.30 ERA with a 1.15 WHIP and 143 strikeouts in 26 starts with Detroit last season. The left-hander is tentatively lined up to face the Rockies at home early next week in his second outing.
Aug 6 2024Rodriguez and the Diamondbacks won't face the Guardians on Tuesday, as the game was postponed due to inclement weather. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tuesday's game will be made up as part of a doubleheader Wednesday, and Rodriguez will get the nod to start the nightcap, per Alex Weiner of ArizonaSports.com. The 31-year-old will likely be working under some sort of pitch/inning restriction as he makes his season debut after working up to just four innings during simulated games.
Aug 2 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) is expected to make his season and Diamondbacks debut Tuesday in Cleveland, John Gambadoro of 98.7 FM Phoenix reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Things were pointing to Rodriguez getting a start against the Guardians and now we have an exact date for the left-hander's first major-league start of the season. He's been out all year with shoulder issues but is now ready to go following a four-inning simulated game Wednesday. Rodriguez did not make any rehab starts and he had been slated to throw 65 pitches in the sim game, so he will be limited from a pitch count perspective and might also be rusty in Cleveland.
Jul 29 2024Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Monday that Rodriguez (shoulder) could make his season debut next week in Cleveland, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez is slated to throw a four-inning simulated game Wednesday, and it sounds like that could be his final test before joining Arizona's rotation. The left-hander has been out all season with a left shoulder injury and has not made any rehab starts, so his workload and sharpness next week would be a bit of a mystery.
Jul 26 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) threw two innings in a simulated game Friday, Alex Weiner of ArizonaSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez began throwing off a mound July 9, and Friday marks the first time he has pitched in a simulated game. He's slated to throw another bullpen session Monday and could be closing in on a rehab assignment, though the Diamondbacks have yet to confirm any plans for a stint in the minors.
Jul 19 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Saturday, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo indicated the left-hander is likely to throw an additional bullpen session after that before progressing to live batting practice. Signed as a free agent in December, Rodriguez has been on the shelf all season due to a strained shoulder, and he'll likely require a multi-start rehab assignment before being cleared for his Arizona debut.
Jul 13 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) threw 30 pitches in a bullpen session Friday, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez got up and down twice during the session in what was his second throwing session of the week. The left-hander is expected to return in early August.
Jul 11 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Friday, Alex Weiner of ArizonaSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez threw off a mound for the first time this season Tuesday and recovered well. He could be cleared to face live hitters after another couple bullpen sessions, which could be the final hurdle before beginning a rehab assignment. Rodriguez has been on the shelf all season due to the shoulder strain and will likely require multiple starts in the minors before being cleared to make his debut for the Diamondbacks.
Jul 9 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) threw a bullpen session with the Diamondbacks on Tuesday, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been slowly working his way back from a left shoulder strain that he suffered in March, but Tuesday's session is a step in the right direction. The southpaw is eligible to return from the 60-day injured list July 26, and he'll look to advance more in his recovery in the coming weeks to attempt to meet that timeline.
Jul 8 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Tuesday, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez got the green light to pitch off the mound Tuesday after his MRI on Saturday showed his left shoulder had fully healed. Since the 31-year-old hasn't pitched this season, he will need multiple bullpen sessions before embarking on a rehab assignment. Barring any setbacks, Rodriguez could return from the injured list in late July or early August.
Jul 6 2024Rodriguez's (shoulder) MRI came back clean Saturday, and he's expected to throw a bullpen session soon, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Saturday's follow-up MRI confirmed that Rodriguez's shoulder has fully healed and marked the southpaw's final checkpoint to clear before beginning mound work. The 31-year-old hasn't pitched in 2024 and will require a lengthy ramp-up period that includes a rehab assignment before being activated from the injured list. Still, Rodriguez could be back in late July or early August.
Jun 28 2024Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Friday that Rodriguez (shoulder) is scheduled for a follow-up MRI on July 6, Jesse Friedman of GoPHNX.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez extended his throwing program out to 105 feet earlier in June, and Lovullo noted that the southpaw could start throwing off the mound depending on the results of the MRI. Rodriguez has been out all season after straining his left shoulder in spring training, and his initial throwing program was shut down in April due to shoulder tightness.
Jun 19 2024Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Wednesday that Rodriguez will likely begin throwing off a mound within the next week after the latest imaging on his left shoulder showed "almost 100 percent healing," Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been out all season with a left shoulder strain, having hit a roadblock in April when he experienced renewed tightness. He's trending in a positive direction now, although he'll require a lengthy ramp-up period upon resuming mound work.
Jun 12 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) has extended his throwing program out to 105 feet, Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez will also continue to receive imaging on his left shoulder to check his progress. The left-hander is one month into the resumption of a throwing program after he had a setback in mid-April. There remains no timetable for Rodriguez's season debut.
May 17 2024Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Rodriguez (shoulder) has extended his throwing program out to 60 feet, Jesse Friedman of GoPHNX.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had to pause his throwing program in early April due to discomfort in his left shoulder, but the fact that he's extended his throwing distance is an encouraging sign. He was transferred from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on April 17, which would make the left-hander eligible to return in mid-June.
May 11 2024Rodriguez (shoulder) began a throwing program out to 45 feet Friday, the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A recent MRI on the shoulder showed positive results, and Rodriguez resumed throwing again. The left-hander was on a throwing program in early April but had it paused when he felt discomfort during a bullpen session April 9. Shortly thereafter he was moved to the 60-day injured list.
May 9 2024Rodriguez is close to being able to begin a throwing program after an MRI on Wednesday showed healing in his left shoulder, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been sidelined all season and had to be shut down from throwing in mid-April after he felt renewed tightness in his shoulder. However, it appears the recent period of rest did him some good, and he's almost ready to ramp things back up again. The left-hander is still likely at least a month or so away from being able to join the Diamondbacks' rotation.
May 5 2024Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Sunday that Rodriguez (shoulder) will undergo an MRI this week to check his recovery progress, after which he could be cleared to resume a throwing program, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander was shut down from throwing in mid-April after he experienced renewed tightness in his shoulder, but Lovullo said the left-hander has recently been "feeling good." Rodriguez will require a lengthy build-up period before embarking on a minor-league rehab assignment, so he's likely at least a month away from making his season debut.
Apr 17 2024Arizona transferred Rodriguez (shoulder) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The transaction was made to free up a spot on the 40-man roster for left-hander Logan Allen, whose contract was selected from Triple-A Reno. Rodriguez is currently shut down after experiencing a setback with his left shoulder last week. He now won't be eligible for activation until May 25, and manager Torey Lovullo said Wednesday that it would likely be sometime in June before the lefty could return, according to Alex Weiner of ArizonaSports.com.
Apr 12 2024Rodriguez experienced further tightness in his left shoulder after throwing a bullpen session Tuesday, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Diamondbacks have decided to pause Rodriguez's throwing program as a result of his setback. Manager Torey Lovullo said Rodriguez's no-throw period could last roughly two weeks -- a week longer than the left-hander's last shutdown -- which will almost certainly delay his D-backs debut and keep Ryne Nelson and Tommy Henry in the rotation for a little while longer.
Mar 28 2024Manager Torey Lovullo said Thursday that Rodriguez (shoulder) could throw off a mound within the next week, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez is still expected to miss several weeks due to his strained left shoulder, but Lovullo said the left-hander's progress has been "very encouraging" so far. A quick return to mound work would make it easier for the Diamondbacks to build him back up quickly, although Rodriguez will likely need to throw a few bullpen sessions before the team starts thinking about a return date.
Mar 27 2024Rodriguez threw from 60 feet Tuesday, Jody Jackson of Bally Sports Arizona reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tuesday marked the first time Rodriguez has thrown since straining his left lat March 19. There is still no clear timeline for a return, but one may emerge as the 30-year-old lefty continues progressing through his rehab program. The Diamondbacks also signed Jordan Montgomery to a one-year deal Tuesday, which will allow the team to be more patient with Rodriguez's recovery.
Mar 22 2024Rodriguez will begin the season on the injured list after being diagnosed with a strained left lat, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He suffered the injury during his last Cactus League outing on Tuesday. Rodriguez will be shut down from throwing until he's asymptomatic, so there is no timetable for when he might make his season debut. Ryne Nelson and Tommy Henry had been competing for the final spot in the Diamondbacks' rotation, but they now will probably both be needed to start some games.
Mar 20 2024Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said the medical staff was "encouraged" after examining Rodriguez (lat) on Wednesday, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was removed from Tuesday's Cactus League appearance with left lat tightness and still felt some discomfort while being examined Wednesday, although it wasn't as bad. The pitcher has not undergone an MRI at this point, although that's still possible. The Diamondbacks have not yet ruled Rodriguez out for Opening Day, but a stay on the injured list remains possible even after the positive exam.
Mar 19 2024Rodriguez exited Tuesday's Cactus League game against the Cubs due to left lat tightness. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez seemed to be wincing on the mound while warming up ahead of the second inning, and the nature of his injury is now known. The D-backs didn't specify how severe Rodriguez's injury is, but the 30-year-old lefty will presumably sit out the Diamondbacks' next several games to recover.
Mar 10 2024Rodriguez allowed two runs (one earned) on four hits while striking out four over four innings in Saturday's spring start against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez took the mound for a third time during Cactus League action and recorded his best results. The left-hander threw 55 pitches and told Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports that he felt about 80 percent of the regular-season version of himself. To get that extra 20 percent, Rodriguez wants to get his fastball velocity up. "I noticed today it was like 90-92 (mph), so like 100% is 91-94 (mph) ... but location-wise, I feel like it was 100%, the pitches were right where I wanted," Rodriguez said. The pitcher has allowed nine runs (eight earned) on 13 hits and four walks while striking out 10 over eight spring innings.
Mar 4 2024Rodriguez allowed three runs on five hits and two walks while striking out four over three innings in Sunday's spring start against Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Brewers ambushed Rodriguez early, taking a 3-0 lead three batters into the game. The left-hander had base traffic in all three innings but managed to avoid further damage with the help of infield defense. The results look similar to his first Cactus League start, when he gave up four runs in an inning, but Rodriguez told Michael McDermott of SI.com that he felt better Sunday. "I threw three innings today, I feel great," Rodriguez said. "I feel I'm on a really good pace for the start of the season." While a 15.75 ERA over four innings might cause concern, it should be noted that spring games are less about results than for getting pitches in shape, working on command and building up pitch counts.
Feb 28 2024Rodriguez allowed four runs on four hits and two walks while striking out two over one-plus innings in Tuesday's spring start against Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez, who signed a four-year deal with Arizona during the offseason, had a rough debut in a Diamondbacks uniform. Just 20 of his 38 offerings landed in the zone, and the left-hander gave up two home runs. Despite the results and shaky command, Rodriguez focused on the positives. "My command was a little off, but overall I was feeling good," the pitcher told Steve Gilbert of MLB.com. "My velocity was right where we wanted it, like 90-92 mph up to 93 sometimes, so overall everything was good. Just location, a little bit, but that's what we've got spring training for." Rodriguez should get another four or five Cactus League starts to build up his pitch count and work on command.
Feb 27 2024Rodriguez will make his spring debut against the Rangers on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had been scheduled to start the Diamondbacks' opener last Friday, but the team changed plans and had the left-hander throw live batting practice on the back fields. He's expected to serve as the No. 3 starter once the regular season begins.
Feb 24 2024Rodriguez threw live batting practice on a back field Friday, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An initial plan to have Rodriguez start Friday's Cactus League opener was scrapped, because the left-hander wanted a more controlled environment. "He felt good enough and might have wanted [to throw] more pitches," Arizona manager Torey Lovullo said. There is no update on when Rodriguez will take the mound in a live setting.
Feb 22 2024Rodriguez will no longer start the Diamondbacks' spring opener Friday against Colorado, Jesse Friedman of GoPHNX.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez will have to wait a bit longer to make his first appearance in a Diamondbacks uniform, as he will instead throw a live batting practice on a backfield Friday. Fellow southpaw Tommy Henry will get the nod to start against the Rockies in Rodriguez's place.
Feb 21 2024Rodriguez is scheduled to start the Diamondbacks' spring opener Friday versus the Rockies, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez will likely work just an inning or two before turning the game over to the bullpen. After joining Arizona on a four-year, $74 million deal in free agency this winter, Rodriguez is projected to open the season as the No. 3 starter behind Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly as the Diamondbacks look to build on last season's surprise run to the National League pennant.
Dec 6 2023Rodriguez signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the Diamondbacks on Wednesday, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez blocked a trade during the season that would have sent him to the Dodgers. Roughly four months later, his journey to the NL West has come to fruition as he joins the reigning National League-champion Diamondbacks. Rodriguez put up career-bests with a 3.30 ERA and 1.15 WHIP through 152.2 innings in 2023, and he joins Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly to form one of the more formidable three-headed monsters in the majors. The deal also includes a vesting option for 2028 that would increase the total value to $100 million if Rodriguez pitches at least 150 innings in 2027.
Nov 4 2023Rodriguez opted out of his contract with the Tigers on Saturday and became a free agent, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Despite blocking a trade that would've sent him to the Dodgers ahead of the deadline, Rodriguez will opt out of his contract with three years left on his deal. The 30-year-old southpaw enjoyed the best season of his career in 2023, posting a 3.30 ERA and 1.15 WHIP with 143 strikeouts across 152.2 innings. Rodriguez should have plenty of suitors willing to give him a multi-year contract in the offseason.
Oct 1 2023Rodriguez (13-9) earned the win Sunday, allowing two runs on four hits and one walk over seven innings in a 5-2 win over Cleveland. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez managed to go seven innings for a second start in a row, picking apart the Guardians lineup to close out the season on a high note. The southpaw put up a 3.89 ERA across 81 innings after returning in July from a finger injury, which may have factored into his decline from the 2.64 ERA he managed in 71.2 innings during the first half of the season. Rodriguez finished the campaign with a solid 3.30 ERA and 1.15 WHIP across 152.2 innings with 143 strikeouts.
Sep 24 2023Rodriguez (12-9) allowed five hits and four walks over seven scoreless innings Sunday, striking out five and earning a win over Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez found himself in trouble a few times but was able to put out fires all afternoon in the scoreless outing. He rebounded well after being tagged with nine runs in his previous two starts. The veteran lefty owns a 3.40 ERA on the year and a 4.08 ERA in 10 starts since the beginning of August. Rodriguez's next start is currently lined up to be at home against the Guardians.
Sep 22 2023Rodriguez (back) is expected to start Sunday at Oakland, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez made an early exit from his last start Monday versus the Dodgers due to back spasms, but he threw a bullpen session Friday without issue and will be able to stay on turn in the Tigers' rotation. The 30-year-old left-hander has registered a 3.57 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 133:43 K:BB through 138.2 innings (24 starts) this season for Detroit.
Sep 21 2023Rodriguez (back) will throw a bullpen session Friday, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Pressreports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was forced to exit his last start due to a back spasm, and he'll now test the issue to ensure he can take the mound Sunday against the Athletics. Manager A.J. Hinch suggested Rodriguez has fully recovered by saying that the team isn't "anticipating any problems."
Sep 19 2023Tigers manager A.J. Hinch revealed after Monday's 8-3 loss to the Dodgers that Rodriguez was lifted in the fourth inning of the contest due to back spasms, ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: More specifically, Hinch described Rodriguez's injury as a "scap" or scapula spasm, as the southpaw had apparently been dealing with pain near his shoulder blade when he called for a team trainer to visit him on the mound Monday. The decision was then made to remove Rodriguez from the game, with the 30-year-old taking the loss after getting charged with five runs on five hits and one walk over three frames. Rodriguez is scheduled to be re-evaluated Tuesday before the Tigers determine if he's fit to make his next turn through the rotation, which would likely fall Saturday or Sunday versus the Athletics.
Sep 18 2023Rodriguez (11-9) allowed five runs on five hits and a walk while striking out one over three innings to take the loss Monday versus the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez endured his shortest start of the season, and this was just the third time he's given up five or more runs. J.D. Martinez did most of the damage with a solo home run in the second inning and a three-run blast one frame later. Rodriguez's ERA jumped to 3.57 with a 1.17 WHIP and 133:43 K:BB through 138.2 innings over 24 starts this year. He's lined up for a more favorable road start in Oakland over the weekend.
Sep 7 2023Rodriguez (11-7) allowed three runs on four hits across six innings to earn the win Thursday against the Yankees. He walked four and struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez matched his season high with four walks, but he was otherwise effective against New York to earn his second straight win and 11th of the year. The lefty had 13 or more wins in each of his last three seasons in Boston, but he fell back to just five victories in his first campaign with the Tigers last year as he missed significant time due to personal reasons. Rodriguez will look to keep rolling in his next scheduled start, which is slated for Wednesday against the Reds.
Sep 2 2023Rodriguez (10-7) allowed one run on six hits and two walks over 6.2 innings Friday, striking out seven and earning a win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The White Sox scratched across a run in the third inning but couldn't get much going against Rodriguez otherwise. Since the All-Star break, he's gone 6-2 with a 3.76 ERA across 52.2 frames. He still owns a strong 3.11 ERA through 21 starts this season. Rodriguez is currently projected for a road matchup with the Yankees next week.
Aug 26 2023Rodriguez (9-7) took the loss Saturday, allowing four runs on five hits and four walks over 4.2 innings against the Astros. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez struggled to get through the Astros order and was unable to retire Alex Bregman specifically. In three at-bats against Rodriguez, Bregman collected a double, a two-run home run and a walk. The free pass was one of four dished out by Rodriguez, who set a season high in the category while tying his season-worst in strikeouts. The southpaw's tentatively scheduled to make his next start during a four-game home stand against the Yankees next week.
Aug 20 2023Rodriguez (9-6) earned the win Sunday, allowing one run on four hits and one walk over 6.2 innings against the Guardians. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez bounced back from allowing six runs in his previous start to dominate the Guardians. The only blemish came in the fourth when Ramon Laureano singled with two outs to drive in the lone Guardians' run. Rodriguez nearly made it through the seventh but was pulled with two outs in the inning following an infield single by Tyler Freeman. Rodriguez now holds a strong 3.03 ERA on the season with a 1.08 WHIP and 115 strikeouts in 113 innings. His next start is currently scheduled for Saturday in a home matchup with the Astros.
Aug 13 2023Rodriguez (8-6) allowed six runs on 10 hits across five innings to take the loss Sunday against the Red Sox. He walked one and struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez struggled in his matchup with Boston, the team he played for from 2015 through 2021 before joining the Tigers in free agency. The lefty was coming off of two good starts in which he allowed just two runs across 13 innings, and he still owns a strong 3.13 ERA for the season. This may be a blip on the radar for Rodriguez, who will look to get back on track in his next scheduled start, which is currently penciled in for Saturday against the Guardians.
Aug 8 2023Rodriguez (8-5) earned the win Tuesday, allowing four hits and three walks over seven scoreless innings against the Twins. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez's now delivered quality starts in three of his last four outings, going 4-0 with a 3.03 ERA in that span, though Tuesday's start was his best since returning from the IL in early July. Overall, Rodriguez sports a 2.75 ERA with a 1.05 WHIP and 101:25 K:BB across 15 starts (91.1 innings) this season. He's currently slated for a road matchup with the Red Sox this weekend in his next outing.
Aug 2 2023Rodriguez (7-5) allowed two runs on seven hits across six innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Pirates. He had one walk and five strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A day after vetoing a potential trade to the Dodgers, Rodriguez looked sharp for the Tigers. The lefty now has a strong 2.96 ERA this season, and with the ability to opt out of his five-year, $77 million contract in the offseason, he could be angling for free agency and another big payday. For now, Rodriguez remains in Detroit, and he'll look to build some momentum in his next scheduled start, which is tentatively set for Tuesday against the Twins.
Jul 26 2023Rodriguez did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing four runs on seven hits and three walks over 4.2 innings against the Angels. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was able to keep the Angels off the board for three innings after Mike Moustakas' two-run double in the first. However, Los Angeles would add another two runs in the fifth, forcing Rodriguez out of the game after 90 pitches. The 30-year-old southpaw had won his previous two starts, allowing just four runs over 12 innings. Rodriguez's ERA now sits at 2.95 with a 1.03 WHIP and 91:21 K:BB across 15 starts (88.1 innings) this season.
Jul 19 2023Rodriguez (6-5) allowed two runs on four hits across seven innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Royals. He had no walks and struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was sharp as he earned his second straight win, and the lefty had his longest outing since going seven innings back on May 10. He missed some time with a finger injury and had allowed seven runs over nine innings since returning from the injured list earlier this month, but he appeared to get back on track Wednesday. Rodriguez will take a strong 2.69 ERA into his next start, which is tentatively set for Monday against the Giants.
Jul 15 2023Rodriguez (5-5) earned the win Friday, allowing two runs on three hits and two walks over five innings in a 5-4 victory over the Mariners. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez rebounded after losing three of his previous four starts. The former Red Sox pitcher still has good numbers despite some recent bumps in the road, posting career lows in ERA (2.70) and WHIP (1.00) so far. His next start is tentatively slated to be against the Royals on Wednesday.
Jul 5 2023Rodriguez (4-5) allowed five runs on six hits across four innings to take the loss Wednesday against the Athletics. He had no walks and struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his first start since May 28 due to a finger injury, Rodriguez was understandably a bit rusty as he turned in his shortest outing of the season. A pair of home runs did the most damage against the lefty, including a two-run shot by Ryan Noda in the first inning. Despite the poor result, it was just good to see Rodriguez out there, and the seven strikeouts are an encouraging sign. He'll carry a strong 2.64 ERA into his next start, which could come July 14 against the Mariners when Detroit returns to action after the All-Star break.
Jul 3 2023Rodriguez (finger) will be activated from the 15-day injured list to start Wednesday's game against the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After returning Matt Manning from the 60-day IL last week, the Tigers will get two more reinforcements to the rotation in the final week before the All-Star break. Tarik Skubal (elbow) will return from the 60-day IL to start Tuesday's series opener, while Rodriguez returns from a five-week absence to take the hill Wednesday. Before being shelved with a ruptured pulley in his left index finger, Rodriguez had been putting together a Cy Young Award-worthy campaign, cobbling together a 2.13 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 67:16 K:BB in 67.2 innings through his first 11 starts. The veteran southpaw looked sharp in his lone minor-league rehab start last Thursday with Triple-A Toledo, striking out four over 4.1 scoreless frames while scattering three hits and one walk.
Jul 1 2023The Tigers are planning on having Rodriguez (finger) start Wednesday against Oakland, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been on the injured list since May 30 with a left index finger pulley rupture and began throwing June 6. He made a rehab start with Triple-A Toledo on Thursday, throwing 4.1 scoreless innings while giving up three hits and striking out four batters. The 30-year-old lefty has been spectacular this season with a 2.13 ERA and 0.98 WHIP across 67.2 innings and is set to face one of baseball's worst offenses in his return.
Jun 29 2023Rodriguez (finger) allowed three hits and a walk while striking out four across 4.1 scoreless innings in Thursday's rehab outing with Triple-A Toledo, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been sidelined since May 30 but managed his first rehab outing and threw 58 pitches. He generated only four swinging strikes, though he also drew 12 called strikes. It's likely that Rodriguez will make one more start in the minors, though the team could activate him for his next turn through the rotation and monitor his pitch count closely in his first appearance.
Jun 26 2023Rodriguez (finger) will make a rehab start Thursday for Triple-A Toledo, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After everything went well during his live batting practice session Saturday, Rodriguez will now officially move on to beginning a rehab assignment. The 30-year-old lefty has been out for nearly a month, so it's possible the Tigers keep him in the minors for more than one rehab start.
Jun 24 2023Rodriguez (finger) felt "fantastic" following his live batting practice session Saturday, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez threw about 50 pitches over three simulated innings during Saturday's session, per Chris McCosky of The Detroit News. There didn't seem to be any issues with Rodriguez's performance, so now the next step figures to be a rehab assignment before potentially returning to Detroit's rotation in early July.
Jun 20 2023Rodriguez (finger) will throw live batting practice Saturday, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be the first time Rodriguez has faced hitters since he landed on the injured list late last month with a ruptured A4 pulley in his left index finger. Assuming he gets through Saturday's session with no issues, Rodriguez could be ready for a rehab assignment soon.
Jun 16 2023Rodriguez (finger) threw a bullpen session Friday, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was the first mound workout for Rodriguez since he suffered a ruptured A4 pulley in his left index finger in late May. There's no exact timetable yet for his return to Detroit's rotation, but the 30-year-old southpaw has trended in an encouraging direction since he resumed throwing on flat ground June 6. An early-July target for activation seems achievable as long as he can avoid setbacks.
Jun 13 2023Rodriguez (finger) has been increasing the intensity of his flat-ground throwing sessions, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Working his way back from a ruptured A4 pulley in his left index finger, Rodriguez began a throwing program a week ago and has been ramping things up slowly but surely. He hasn't been cleared for mound work yet, but that would seem to be around the corner. The left-hander could rejoin the Tigers' rotation sometime around the beginning of July, although that's a rough timetable.
Jun 6 2023Rodriguez (finger) played catch after being cleared to do so Tuesday, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tuesday marks the first time Rodriguez has thrown since landing on the 15-day injured list last week. His quick return to throwing is a positive sign; however, he likely still has a long recovery process ahead of him after being given a 6-to-8 week timeline Saturday.
Jun 5 2023Rodriguez will visit a finger specialist in Philadelphia on Tuesday, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez is dealing with a ruptured A4 pulley in his left index finger. The initial expectation is that he'll likely be sidelined 6-to-8 weeks with the injury, but it would appear he's receiving another opinion before determining the best course of action.
Jun 3 2023Rodriguez, who is on the 15-day injured list with a a ruptured A4 pulley in his left index finger, could be facing a six-to-eight week absence, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stavenhagen spoke with Dr. David Hay, an orthopedic hand and wrist surgeon, about the rare injury and Hay's estimation was that Rodriguez could need 10-to-14 days of serious rest, followed by two-to-four weeks of light recovery, usually with a taped finger, and on the whole it could be six-to-eight weeks before he is throwing at high intensity. Hay noted that without seeing Rodriguez's MRI, the timeline could vary, although Stavenhagen cited similar injuries to Adam Wainwright in 2008 and Randy Dobnak in 2021 that both resulted in 10-week absences.
May 30 2023Detroit placed Rodriguez on the 15-day injured list Tuesday with a left index finger pulley rupture, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez threw 100 pitches over six innings of one-run ball against the White Sox on Sunday without any hint of a physical issue, so the news seems to come out of nowhere. He will be sidelined for at least a couple weeks and the Tigers haven't revealed who will replace him in the rotation. Rodriguez boasts a 2.13 ERA across 11 starts this season.
May 28 2023Rodriguez allowed one run on five hits across six innings and did not factor into the decision in Sunday's 10-inning win over the White Sox. He walked two and struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez pitched well and left the game in line for the win with the Tigers up 4-1, but the White Sox scored four times in the seventh inning to saddle him with a no-decision. The lefty still took a step forward after allowing six earned runs across 10 total innings in his last two starts. Rodriguez lowered his ERA to a stellar 2.13 and will look to build on this strong outing his next time out, which will likely come next weekend against this same Chicago squad.
May 23 2023Rodriguez (4-4) allowed four runs (two earned) on eight hits across five innings to take the loss Tuesday against the Royals. He walked two and struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the second straight outing, Rodriguez allowed four total runs over five innings, and he took the loss in both contests. The lefty still has been good overall with a 2.19 ERA and 61 strikeouts across 61.2 innings, though he looks to be coming back to the pack a bit after a dominant stretch between mid-April and mid-May. Rodriguez is slated to take the mound again this weekend against the White Sox and will look to regain his sharper form.
May 17 2023Rodriguez (4-3) took the loss Wednesday, allowing four runs on six hits and two walks over five innings against the Pirates. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez matched a season high with four runs allowed Wednesday after he'd allowed just two runs over his previous six starts (41.2 innings). The 30-year-old left-hander still sports a sparkling 2.06 ERA with a 0.86 WHIP and 52:12 K:BB through 56.2 innings this season. Rodriguez will look to get back on track in his next outing, tentatively scheduled for next week in Kansas City.
May 10 2023Rodriguez (4-2) earned the win Wednesday, allowing no runs on four hits and two walks over seven innings in a 5-0 victory over the Guardians. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the third consecutive win for Rodriguez as he extended his scoreless inning streak to 17.2 innings. The 30-year-old left-hander has been excellent after two mediocre outings to start the year, allowing just two earned runs over his last six starts (41.2 innings). His ERA is down to 1.57 -- third among qualified pitchers -- with a 0.78 WHIP and 47:10 K:BB. Rodriguez has emerged as one of fantasy baseball's biggest surprises so far this season.
May 4 2023Rodriguez (3-2) earned the win Thursday, allowing two hits and one walk over eight scoreless innings against the Mets. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez picked up his third win in his last four starts, fanning nine over eight scoreless innings. The 30-year-old has been off to a blazing start to 2023, holding a 1.81 ERA through six starts after finishing the last two seasons with a 4.05 and 4.74 ERA, respectively. Rodriguez has filled the role of Detroit's top arm thus far and has allowed just two runs over his last five starts (34.2 innings) while striking out 33 batters. The southpaw has also logged quality starts in four of his last five appearances and should remain a strong fantasy option until he shows otherwise.
Apr 30 2023Rodriguez (2-2) picked up the win in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Orioles, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw fell just short of his fourth straight quality start, getting the hook after 98 pitches (62 strikes) with Detroit up 5-1, but it was still another strong outing for Rodriguez. After a tough 2022 campaign on and off the field, the 30-year-old has roared back with a 2.21 ERA, 0.87 WHIP and 30:7 K:BB through his first 36.2 innings this season. He'll look to keep rolling in his next start, which could come at home next week against the Mets.
Apr 28 2023Rodriguez will start the first game of a doubleheader against the Orioles on Saturday, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was scheduled to start against Baltimore on Friday, but the game was postponed due to rain. It'll be a pair of lefties going for the Tigers on Saturday with Rodriguez getting the ball for game one and Matthew Boyd starting the second game.
Apr 5 2023Rodriguez (0-2) took the loss Wednesday, allowing four runs on six hits and two walks over 4.2 innings against the Astros. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez allowed six hits but two of those were homers, including a two-run shot by Chas McCormick in the second inning. Given the opponent, it wasn't a horrible performance from Rodriguez, but he lacked strikeout stuff Wednesday and has received only one run from his offense over his first two starts, making him an unattractive fantasy option to start the campaign. Rodriguez is scheduled to pitch again next week in Toronto, which is another difficult matchup for the left-hander.
Mar 30 2023Rodriguez (0-1) allowed three runs on three hits across 5.1 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Rays. He walked two and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez pitched decently but he was outdueled by Shane McClanahan in a 4-0 defeat for the Tigers. This may be an issue all year for the lefty, as Detroit is expected to have a fairly weak offensive attack. Rodriguez still may post solid ratios and rack up strikeouts, though he could struggle to earn many wins. He's lined up to make his second start Wednesday against a tough Houston squad.
Mar 20 2023Rodriguez tossed 4.2 scoreless innings in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Nationals. He allowed four hits and a walk while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez still has not allowed an earned run this spring across 13 innings and he's struck out 15. The lefty had an underwhelming first season in Detroit last year, as he missed significant time due to personal reasons and finished with a 4.05 ERA and 72 strikeouts across 91 innings. Rodriguez should again lead the staff in 2023, and if he can carry over some of his spring success, he could be primed for much better production from a fantasy standpoint.
Mar 3 2023Rodriguez tossed three scoreless innings in Friday's Grapefruit League game against the Phillies. He allowed one hit and struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has now tossed five innings across two starts this spring without allowing a run. The lefty only made 17 starts for the Tigers in 2022 as he missed a big chunk of time due to personal reasons, and he recorded a 4.05 ERA across 91 innings. If he has a strong spring and can carry that into the regular season, Rodriguez could be in line for a much improved second year in Detroit.
Feb 25 2023Rodriguez is slated to start Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Orioles, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The start will be Rodriguez's spring debut, and the lefty will be looking to rebound after a tumultuous 2022 debut in Detroit. He made only 17 starts for the Tigers as he missed significant time due to personal reasons. Rodriguez logged a respectable 4.05 ERA in those starts, though he only struck out 72 batters across 91 innings, giving him a 7.1 K/9. He had a 10.6 K/9 a year earlier with Boston, so he'll be looking for an improvement in that area this season as the leader of Detroit's staff.
Oct 4 2022Rodriguez allowed three runs on six hits, a walk and a hit batsman while striking out seven in six innings in a 7-6 extra-inning loss in Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader in Seattle. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez ran into trouble in the third inning as Curt Casali and Mitch Haniger each put balls into the seat, resulting in three runs being scored. Rodriguez otherwise held the Mariners in check and induced two groundball double plays. It was his fourth straight start of at least six innings. He ends his first year in Detroit with a 4.05 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 72:34 K:BB in 91 innings across 17 starts.
Sep 29 2022Rodriguez (5-5) tossed 6.2 scoreless innings to earn the win Thursday against the Royals. He allowed five hits and four walks, while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The four walks were a bit high, but it was otherwise a stellar outing for Rodriguez. The lefty has now registered three straight quality starts, with wins in two of those games. Rodriguez was out due to personal reasons for about two and half months, so he's only made 16 starts to date in his first season with the Tigers. He could be primed for a strong 2023 campaign if he makes 30 or more starts, which he did in his last two seasons before this year. Rodriguez is lined up to make one final 2022 start Tuesday against the Mariners.
Sep 23 2022Rodriguez (4-5) picked up the win Friday against the White Sox, giving up three runs on eight hits across six innings. He struck out three batters and walked one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While the outing was good for both a win and a quality start, it can hardly be considered a dominating outing for Rodriguez, whose 4.50 ERA and 1.50 WHIP on the day likely didn't help fantasy teams. He allowed one run on a Jose Abreu single in the third inning and two more on an A.J. Pollock homer in the sixth. He's in line to face the Royals at home and the Mariners on the road to close out the year.
Sep 18 2022Rodriguez did not factor into the decision against the White Sox on Saturday, allowing two runs on two hits while striking out seven and walking two over 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez pitched well enough to win the game Saturday, but did not factor into the decision after the game went into extra innings. The lefty picked up a quality start in the outing, his second this month and his seventh of the season. This has been a rough month for Rodriguez as he has given up 15 earned runs across 22.1 frames for a 6.04 ERA. Perhaps his most recent outing will help get him on the right track. He will take a 4.35 ERA into his next appearance.
Sep 12 2022Rodriguez (3-5) allowed five runs on 10 hits across five innings to take the loss Monday against the Astros. He walked one and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Houston has a stacked lineup and it made Rodriguez work, as the lefty allowed a season-high 10 hits. Rodriguez was better in his last start, allowing just three runs across seven innings, but this is the second time in his last three outings allowing five or more runs. All told, the 29-year-old now has a 4.50 ERA across 66 innings this season. Rodriguez will look for better results his next time out, which is currently scheduled for Saturday against the White Sox.
Sep 6 2022Rodriguez tossed seven innings, giving up three runs on five hits while striking out four in Tuesday's extra-innings loss to the Angels. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez gave up three solo homers in the first two innings before pitching five scoreless frames to end his outing. The left-hander was taken off the hook for a loss when the Tigers scored a run in the top of the eighth, evening the score at 3-3. He has now produced three strong efforts in three of his four starts since returning to the team Aug. 19 after an extended absence due to a personal matter, producing a 3.69 ERA over 22 innings. Rodriguez now owns a 4.13 ERA and 1.33 WHIP with 50 strikeouts over 61 frames in 12 outings this season.
Sep 1 2022Rodriguez (3-4) allowed six runs (five earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out five across four innings to take the loss Thursday against Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez allowed at least one earned run in three of his four innings. He served up back-to-back homers to begin the second frame and then proceeded to allow four hits -- leading to three more runs -- in the fourth inning. Entering Thursday's start, Rodriguez had allowed only one earned run across 11 innings since returning from the injured and restricted list Aug. 21. For the season, he owns a 4.17 ERA with a 46:25 K:BB across 54 innings.
Aug 27 2022Rodriguez (3-3) picked up the win against Texas on Saturday, allowing one run on six hits and three walks while striking out two batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Rodriguez allowed a fair amount of traffic on the bases, he was able to make it through six innings on just 78 pitches. He was helped by three double plays and pitched to contact, as the left-hander induced only two swinging strikes. Rodriguez has looked good since returning from a lengthy stay on the injured list Aug. 21, earning a pair of wins and allowing only one run over 11 innings across two starts.
Aug 21 2022Rodriguez (2-3) earned the victory Sunday over the Angels, striking out five in five shutout innings while allowing four hits and three walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez (personal) made his first start since May 18 after dealing with a rib injury and a personal issue over the last three months. Three times Sunday the lefty had two runners on and one out; in each case, he worked his way out of trouble. He tossed 78 pitches - 45 strikes - and may have a pitch limit as he works his way back to full strength. The 29-year-old has a 3.89 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 39:20 K:BB in 44 innings across nine starts this year. His next start will likely be at the end of next week in Texas.
Aug 19 2022Rodriguez (personal) was activated from the restricted list Friday, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He is confirmed to start Sunday's game against the Angels. Rodriguez had a 1.29 ERA, 0.86 WHIP and 22:3 K:BB in 14 innings across three rehab starts this month in the minors, most recently building up to six innings at Triple-A on Tuesday.
Aug 17 2022The Tigers plan to reinstate Rodriguez (personal) from the restricted list and have him start Sunday's game against the Angels, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez will be rejoining the Tigers to make his first start since May 18, after his two-plus-month-stint on the restricted list was proceeded by a month-long stay on the 15-day injured list with a left rib cage sprain. He's been fully recovered from the injury for a while now, and after returning from personal leave Aug. 6 to begin his rehab assignment, Rodriguez has looked as dominant against minor-league hitters as could be expected. He ended the minor-league assignment on a high note Tuesday, when he struck out 11 over six innings of one-run ball for Triple-A Toledo. He tossed 72 pitches in that outing and shouldn't face any major workload restrictions when he slots back into the Detroit rotation Sunday.
Aug 15 2022Rodriguez (personal) is starting for Triple-A Toledo on Tuesday, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez will make one more start with Toledo before the team before having a conference call with manager A.J. Hinch on Wednesday to discuss his next step. If he's set to return to the big leagues, the left-hander could start for the Tigers as soon as Aug. 21.
Aug 11 2022Rodriguez (personal) allowed one hit and one walk while striking out six across five scoreless innings Thursday in a rehab outing with Triple-A Toledo, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez stretched out to 53 pitches after he covered three frames in his first rehab appearance with Single-A Lakeland. He may make one additional rehab appearance, but Rodriguez should be back in the Detroit rotation by the end of August barring any setbacks.
Aug 4 2022Rodriguez (personal) will make a rehab start with Single-A Lakeland on Saturday, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old has recently been ramping up his throwing program and reported to the Tigers' extended spring training facility last weekend, and he's now been cleared for game action in the lower minors. Rodriguez has been away from the team since mid-May and will likely require multiple rehab starts before rejoining Detroit's starting rotation later in August. He's expected to throw about three innings and 50 pitches with Lakeland.
Jul 30 2022Rodriguez (personal) will report to the Tigers' extended spring training facility Saturday, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been away from the Tigers over the last month and a half due to a personal matter, but he recently regained contact with the team and began to ramp back up. The team hopes the left-hander will be ready to appear in games at Single-A Lakeland by the end of the week, and the goal is for Rodriguez to be ready to rejoin the Tigers' rotation around the third week of August.
Jul 23 2022Rodriguez (personal) has been in contact with the Tigers recently and has begun to ramp back up, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez left the team due to a personal matter in mid-June and wasn't in touch with the team for several weeks, but the Tigers hope that he'll be able to return to game action sometime in late August. The southpaw will presumably require several weeks to ramp back up following his layoff, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him head out on a minor-league rehab assignment sometime next month.
Jul 6 2022Tigers general manager Al Avila said Wednesday that Rodriguez (personal) hasn't been in communication with the club since landing on the restricted list June 13, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. "We reached out, but he hasn't reached out back. We're just kind of waiting it out...it is unusual. But we have no choice but to wait and see what develops as we move forward," Avila said. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: When Rodriguez was placed on the restricted list to tend to a personal matter, the Tigers relayed that the southpaw wouldn't have a timeline for a return, but the expectation was that he would remain in touch with the team in some capacity. The fact that Rodriguez isn't actively keeping in contact with Tigers officials could hint at some potential friction between player and team, as Avila might not have made these public comments if the two sides were on the same page. At any rate, fantasy managers shouldn't count on Rodriguez being ready to go coming out of the All-Star break, as he'll likely need at least few weeks to ramp back up regardless of if or when he rejoins the Tigers. Before being moved to the restricted list, Rodriguez was on the cusp of returning from the 15-day injured list after he had been sidelined since late May with a left rib cage sprain.
Jul 1 2022Rodriguez (personal) remains without any sort of return timetable, with the Tigers electing to respect his privacy rather than give further information on his absence, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was on the verge of returning from a rib injury in mid-June but had to leave the team due to a personal issue, the nature of which still hasn't been specified by the Tigers. Manager A.J. Hinch said Friday that Rodriguez is back at his home in Florida with his children but didn't provide any information on his expected return date.
Jun 13 2022Rodriguez (ribs) was transferred to the restricted list due to a personal matter Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez appeared to be close to a return from his strained left rib cage, but he'll now miss an unspecified amount of additional time. The Tigers have remained vague about both the reason for his absence and his expected return date. Depending on how long the personal matter keeps him out for, Rodriguez may be stuck with a further delay as he ramps back up to speed.
Jun 12 2022Rodriguez (ribs) is dealing with a personal issue, and the Tigers will provide an update in a couple days, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All we know at this point is that Rodriguez will not be an option to start early next week. The last report was that Rodriguez would likely get another rehab start before joining the big-league rotation, but this personal issue could push back that timetable.
Jun 11 2022Rodriguez (ribs) will likely make another rehab start, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had a chance to be activated early next week, but it appears he will pitch once more in the minors before being brought back by the Tigers. Barring any setbacks, he is on track to take the ball for the big club sometime next weekend.
Jun 9 2022Rodriguez (ribs) allowed two hits and no walks while striking out nine across four scoreless innings in a rehab outing with Triple-A Toldeo on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez threw 52 pitches and sat between 94 and 95 mph with his fastball, per Jason Beck of MLB.com. If that reading is accurate and Rodriguez can maintain it over the course of an entire start in the majors, it would be his highest velocity since the 2017 season. Given the decent volume of his first rehab outing, Rodriguez should be able to rejoin the rotation within his next turn or two.
Jun 7 2022Rodriguez (ribs) will report to Triple-A Toledo on Thursday for a rehab assignment, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander has already been on the injured list for more than the 15-day minimum, and he's now entering the final stages of his rehab program. Rodriguez may need only one start in the minors before rejoining the active roster, so he could be back in Detroit's starting rotation next week if Thursday's outing with Toledo goes well.
Jun 2 2022Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said Thursday that Rodriguez (rib cage) will begin a rehab assignment soon, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez resumed playing catch one week ago without issue, and he looks like he could be cleared for a bullpen session in the coming days. If all goes well once Rodriguez gets back on a mound and faces hitters, he could be sent out on a rehab assignment as soon as next week. Since he's been sidelined for approximately two weeks due to a sprain on the left side of his rib cage, Rodriguez will likely need only one start in the minors before he's ready to return from the 15-day injured list.
May 26 2022Rodriguez (ribs) played catch from 60-to-70 feet Thursday with no issues, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old landed on the injured list over the weekend with a sprain on the left side of his rib cage, and his quick return to throwing is an encouraging sign for his recovery. Rodriguez still needs to ramp up the intensity of his throwing program, but he could be back on the mound in the near future if he avoids any setbacks.
May 23 2022Rodriguez underwent tests on his ribs Monday which didn't reveal any stress reaction, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The tests seemingly confirm that Rodriguez's diagnosis will be limited to a sprained left rib cage. He'll avoid throwing this week but is expected to resume next week. Given that he'll still need some time to build his arm back up, it seems unlikely that a minimum-length stay on the injured list is in play, though the Tigers have yet to clarify his timeline.
May 22 2022The Tigers placed Rodriguez on the 15-day injured list Sunday with a left rib cage sprain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Shortly after Rodriguez was pulled from his start with left side discomfort in Wednesday's loss to the Rays, manager A.J. Hinch noted that the lefty would require a trip to the IL. The Tigers delayed making the move while awaiting the results of his MRI, which evidently revealed no oblique strain but instead an injury to his rib cage. Detroit has yet to reveal a timeline for Rodriguez's return as a result of the diagnosis, but he won't be eligible to come off the IL until early June regardless.
May 20 2022Rodriguez got good news from an MRI on Friday, as the test showed no damage to his oblique, but he's still expected to hit the injured list, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez left his start Wednesday against the Rays in the first inning with an injury which was originally called side discomfort. While he's apparently avoided a particularly serious injury, he'll still miss at least two turns in the rotation and won't be back until early June. With Matt Manning (shoulder), Casey Mize (elbow), Tyler Alexander (elbow) and Michael Pineda (finger) all on the shelf as well, the Tigers will have to dig deep into their depth options for at least the next couple weeks.
May 18 2022Manager A.J. Hinch said that Rodriguez will likely be headed to the 15-day injured list after exiting his start in Wednesday's 6-1 loss to the Rays with left side discomfort, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Detroit may wait until after Thursday's off day to make the transaction official, but initial evaluations of Rodriguez's injury didn't provide much optimism about him being ready to go the next time his turn comes up in the rotation. The lefty is scheduled to undergo an MRI later Wednesday or Thursday, which should shed more light on the extent of the injury and reveal whether he's potentially dealing with an oblique strain. Rodriguez was pulled with one out in the first inning of his start Wednesday after showing diminished velocity while pumping in only 11 of his 23 pitches for strikes and allowing three earned runs on four hits and two walks.
May 14 2022Rodriguez (1-2) picked up the win in Friday's 4-2 victory over the Orioles, allowing five hits and four walks over 6.2 scoreless innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't the southpaw's sharpest effort, but Rodriguez tossed 72 of 104 pitches for strikes despite the elevated walk total and all of Detroit's hits off him were singles. The 29-year-old has delivered quality starts in four of his last five outings, leading to a 3.72 ERA and 1.19 WHIP on the season, but his 21.0 percent strikeout rate and 9.3 percent walk rate would both be the worst marks of his career if they don't improve.
May 7 2022Rodriguez allowed one earned run on one hit and three walks while striking out eight across 6.2 innings Saturday against the Astros. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez carried a 5.33 ERA into Saturday's start, but he delivered his best performance as a Tiger. He limited the Astros to only a solo home run while also racking up a season-best eight strikeouts. Rodriguez did continue to struggle with his command, and he has walked multiple batters in four of his six appearances this season. While this outing was a step forward, Rodriguez still owns a 4.50 ERA across 32 frames on the season.
May 1 2022Rodriguez (0-2) allowed six runs (four earned) on eight hits across 5.2 innings to take the loss against the Dodgers on Sunday. He had no walks and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez allowed three runs on three hits in the second inning, though a Jeimer Candelario throwing error did not help the cause. The lefty settled down after that and kept the Tigers in the game, but Detroit generated only three runs on 10 hits in the 6-3 loss. It's been a sluggish start for the big offseason acquisition, as Rodriguez has a 5.33 ERA through five starts and is still searching for his first win with his new team. It'll be a tough task against a talented Houston squad in his next scheduled outing Saturday.
Apr 26 2022Rodriguez allowed three runs on four hits across six innings and did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's loss to the Twins. He walked two and struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was mostly good in this one, with a two-run home run by Max Kepler in the fourth inning probably the pitch he'd most want back. It was still an encouraging outing for the lefty, who has now logged consecutive quality starts to lower his season ERA to 5.03. Rodriguez will look to keep pitching well and pick up his first win with the Tigers in his next scheduled start Sunday against the potent Dodgers.
Apr 21 2022Rodriguez allowed three runs across six innings but did not factor into the decision in Wednesday's loss to the Yankees. He gave up four hits and a walk while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez pitched reasonably well against a stout New York lineup, and though he's still looking for his first win of the season, he now at least has his first quality start with Detroit. The lefty has been tested so far with outings against the White Sox, Red Sox and Yankees, so his 5.27 ERA could start to come down as he gets some easier matchups. His next projected start Tuesday against the Twins qualifies, as Minnesota's lineup has struggled in the early going.
Apr 13 2022Rodriguez (0-1) allowed seven runs (two earned) across 3.2 innings to take the loss Wednesday against the Red Sox. He gave up five hits and three walks while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The strikeouts were nice but everything else was a struggle for Rodriguez in the matchup against Boston, which was his team for the last six seasons. The lefty hasn't gotten off to a good start with his new squad, as he now has a 5.87 ERA and 1.83 WHIP across his first two starts. He was better in the spring (3.71 Grapefruit League ERA), so maybe he'll be able to get rolling soon. Rodriguez has another tough matchup on tap, though, as he's slated to face the Yankees on Tuesday.
Apr 8 2022Rodriguez allowed three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out two in four innings in Friday's win over the White Sox. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez gave up three runs in the first two innings of Friday's matchup, and he settled for a no-decision in the Opening Day start. The 29-year-old posted a career-worst 4.74 ERA and 1.39 WHIP in 32 appearances (31 starts) last year, but he had a career-best 27.4 percent strikeout rate. Rodriguez tentatively lines up to make his next start against the Red Sox on Wednesday at home.
Apr 3 2022Rodriguez allowed two runs on three hits across five innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Orioles. He walked one and struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his final tune-up start before his Opening Day nod Friday, Rodriguez looked sharp and brought his spring ERA down to 3.71. He also recorded 19 strikeouts across 17 Grapefruit League innings. The lefty should be a good source of strikeouts all season, and he may see improvements in ERA and WHIP working in a more pitcher-friendly home ballpark. With Boston last season, Rodriguez posted a 4.74 ERA and 1.39 WHIP, both of which were career worsts. However, he also won 13 games and struck out 185 batters across 157.2 innings.
Mar 28 2022Rodriguez allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits across five innings in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees. He walked one and struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Rodriguez's least effective start this spring, as he had allowed a total of just two earned runs across seven innings in his previous two outings. The lefty is still looking solid in camp with a 3.75 ERA and should slot in as the Tigers' ace this season. Working in a pitcher-friendly home ballpark, Rodriguez could be poised for good results in his first season with Detroit.
Mar 18 2022Rodriguez was named the Tigers' starter against the White Sox for Opening Day on April 8, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez is starting Detroit's first game of spring training Friday and will also be the first pitcher to take the mound in the regular season. It's hardly a surprise after the 28-year-old inked a five-year, $77 million deal with the Tigers in mid-November. Rodriguez finished last season with a 4.74 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and 185:47 K:BB across 157.2 innings, though he posted a career-best 24.0 K-BB% and 0.71 HR/9.
Mar 17 2022Rodriguez is slated to start the Tigers' spring training opener Friday against the Phillies, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This isn't surprising, as Rodriguez was signed to a five-year, $77 million deal in the offseason to serve as Detroit's No. 1 starter. He'll be followed by Casey Mize on Saturday, and those two should headline the rotation during the regular season as well. Rodriguez recorded a 4.74 ERA and 185 strikeouts across 157.2 innings for the Red Sox in 2021.
Nov 15 2021Rodriguez agreed Monday with the Tigers on a five-year, $77 million contract, Cody Stavenhagen and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic report. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: One day after declining his $18.4 million qualifying offer from the Red Sox, Rodriguez was able to come to terms with the Tigers on a lucrative long-term deal. According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, Rodriguez's contract includes an opt out after the second year plus an additional $3 million in incentives, while Rosnthal adds that the deal also includes a no-trade clause. Though Rodriguez submitted an unremarkable 4.74 ERA and 1.39 WHIP in 2021 after sitting out the 2020 season while recovering from a myocarditis as the result of contracting COVID-19, the 28-year-old's underlying statistics were much more encouraging. He posted a career-best 24.0 K-BB% and a career-low 0.71 HR/9, offering hope for improvement in his surface numbers while pitching at a more forgiving home park in Detroit and against less formidable competition in the AL Central.
Nov 7 2021The Red Sox extended a qualifying offer to Rodriguez on Sunday, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 28-year-old lefty will have 10 days to decide whether to accept the one-year, $18.4 million qualifying offer. Given the fact that he finished the season healthy and is entering the prime of his career, Rodriguez seems likely to decline the qualifying offer and land a long-term contract in free agency. He had a 4.74 ERA last year, but his xERA (3.55) and FIP (3.32) suggest he was a bit unlucky.
Oct 19 2021Rodriguez earned the win in Game 3 of the ALCS against the Astros on Monday, striking out seven and walking none while giving up three runs on five hits in six innings of work. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez wasn't handed a particularly tough task Monday, as his teammates gave him a 6-0 lead after two innings and a 9-0 lead after three. He did give back three runs on a Kyle Tucker homer in the top of the fourth, so his performance may not have been good enough on a different day, but it was an overall encouraging outing. He'll be on turn to start Game 7 on Saturday if the series goes the distance.
Oct 17 2021Rodriguez will start Game 3 of the ALCS against the Astros on Monday, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez last pitched in Game 4 of the ALDS versus the Rays -- he allowed two runs on three hits with six strikeouts in zero walks in five innings -- and he'll make his first appearance of the ALCS on Monday. It'll be a tough task for the left-hander as Houston is averaging 6.8 runs through six playoff games this year and has yet to score fewer than five runs in a single contest.
Oct 12 2021Rodriguez gave up two earned runs on three hits and zero walks while striking out six in five innings Monday against the Rays in Game 4 of the ALDS. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Rodriguez did not factor in the decision, he pitched well enough for Boston to close out the Rays and advance to the ALCS. Boston will face the winner of the series between the Astros and White Sox. Rodriguez could start multiple games in that series.
Oct 10 2021Rodriguez will likely start Game 4 of the ALDS against the Rays on Monday, Chris Cotillo of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Nick Pivetta was initially penciled in as Monday's starter, but he tossed four relief innings Sunday as the Red Sox won Game 3 in extra innings. As a result, Rodriguez will likely take the mound on short rest as the Red Sox attempt to advance to the ALCS. The southpaw started the first game of the ALDS on Thursday and allowed two runs on two hits and two walks while striking out one in 1.2 innings.
Oct 8 2021Rodriguez (0-1) took the loss in Game 1 of the ALDS at Tampa Bay on Thursday after giving up two runs on two hits with two walks and one strikeout over 1.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez surrendered two runs in the opening frame and walked the leadoff man in the second, and he was removed after retiring the next two batters to avoid facing the lineup a second time. The left-hander threw only 24 of 41 pitches in the strikezone, though he still generated five swinging strikes in the short outing. Rodriguez lines up to pitch Game 5 on Wednesday should the series reach that point, though manager Alex Cora could also opt to go in a different direction after the five-out showing.
Oct 6 2021Rodriguez will start Game 1 of the American League Division Series at Tampa Bay on Thursday, Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander made his final start of the regular season Friday with five shutout innings, and he also picked up a win in relief by delivering a scoreless frame Sunday. Rodriguez had a poor start to the season but ended the campaign pitching well with a 3.26 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 64:19 K:BB in 58 innings across his last 12 outings. Chris Sale is expected to take the mound in Friday's Game 2 for Boston.
Oct 3 2021Rodriguez (13-8) pitched a perfect inning with one strikeout to earn the win Sunday over Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With a playoff spot on the line, manager Alex Cora took no chances, turning to Rodriguez in the eighth inning after the southpaw threw five shutout innings Friday. Rodriguez delivered a solid relief appearance, and Boston took the lead in the ninth to put him in line for the win. The 28-year-old ended the regular season with a 4.74 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and 185:47 K:BB across 157.2 innings, primarily as a starter. He was marginally better after the All-Star break with a 3.76 ERA in 67 innings across his last 14 starts, which bodes well for his chances of being in the postseason rotation should Nathan Eovaldi and Boston beat the Yankees in Tuesday's AL Wild Card Game.
Oct 1 2021Rodriguez (12-8) allowed five hits and three walks with six strikeouts in five shutout innings, earning the win Friday over Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was able to limit the damage despite allowing eight baserunners, and Boston's offense took over in the sixth inning with back-to-back home runs from Hunter Renfroe and Bobby Dalbec. That earned Rodriguez the win, his 12th of the year. The southpaw has allowed more than two runs just once in six starts since the beginning of September. He now has a 4.77 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and 184:47 K:BB in 156.2 innings overall. If he starts again this year, Boston would have to qualify for the postseason.
Sep 27 2021Rodriguez didn't factor into the decision Sunday against the Yankees after allowing two runs on six hits and a walk across five innings, striking out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez extended his winless streak to four starts, though it's worth noting he has given up two or fewer runs in each of his last three trips to the mound. Despite a subpar outing against the Rays on Sep. 7, when he allowed six runs across just 3.2 innings, Rodriguez has been able to limit the damage most of the time and owns a 3.96 ERA across 25 innings (five appearances) this month.
Sep 21 2021Rodriguez allowed two earned runs on five hits and three walks while striking out five across 4.1 innings Tuesday against the Mets. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez turned in a decent performance from a run prevention and strikeout perspective. However, he was extremely inefficient and needed 92 pitches to record just 13 outs. As a result, he lost out on a chance to earn the win. Rodriguez has been frustratingly inconsistent across his last six starts. In that span, he's turned in three outings of 4.1 innings or fewer and posted a 10.03 ERA. On the other hand, he's turned in a quality start in the other three appearances and maintained a 1.89 ERA in those efforts.
Sep 13 2021Rodriguez allowed two runs (one earned) on six hits and a walk over six innings in Monday's loss to Seattle. He struck out six and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After he was hammered for six runs in his last outing, Rodriguez turned in a fourth quality start over his last six appearances. He allowed a run-scoring groundout in each of the first two innings but settled in for four shutout frames after that. Rodriguez lowered his season ERA to an even 5.00 with a 165:40 K:BB through 28 starts. He's lined up to face Baltimore at home this weekend.
Sep 7 2021Rodriguez (11-8) surrendered six runs on eight hits and struck out three in 3.2 innings, taking the loss versus Tampa Bay on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw was effective against the Rays last Thursday with six shutout innings, but he did not enjoy the same success at home. Six of the eight hits Rodriguez allowed went for extra bases, including two home runs and a triple. The 28-year-old's ERA rose to 5.15 with a 1.39 WHIP and 159:39 K:BB through 136.1 innings this year. He's been maddeningly inconsistent with three quality starts and three outings with five-plus runs allowed in 10 starts since the All-Star break. Rodriguez lines up for a challenging road start versus the White Sox this weekend.
Sep 2 2021Rodriguez (11-7) picked up the win pitching six scoreless innings on four hits with one walk and six strikeouts against Tampa Bay on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After allowing a combined eight runs across his last two appearances, Rodriguez bounced-back nicely in what was his third scoreless outing across his last six starts. This was an impressive showing for the left-hander who only allowed a total of five baserunners before leaving after a walk and single in the seventh inning. Rodriguez will look to continue this success when he is tentatively scheduled to start next week against Tampa Bay once again.
Aug 27 2021Rodriguez (10-7) picked up the win Friday pitching seven innings while allowing three runs on eight hits with one walk and two strikeouts in a win over Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw tied his season-high with seven innings pitched Friday. While Rodriguez did surrender eight hits for the second consecutive start, the left-hander was able to limit the damage with all three runs coming via home runs from Jose Ramirez and Yu Chang. After throwing a season-high 109 pitches Friday, Rodriguez is tentatively scheduled to take the mound next week against Tampa Bay.
Aug 22 2021Rodriguez (9-7) took the loss against Texas on Saturday, allowing five runs on eight hits and one walk while striking out three over 3.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander came into the outing with a 1.10 ERA over his past three starts, but he couldn't keep things going against the Rangers. Rodriguez made it through the first inning unscathed but gave up a pair of runs in the second. He was then chased in the fourth after allowing a pair of doubles and a single, resulting in two runs. The final tally against Rodriguez came after he left the contest. He'll look to put the poor outing behind him in his next start, which is lined up to come at Cleveland next Friday.
Aug 15 2021Rodriguez (9-6) allowed an unearned run on three hits and three walks with six strikeouts over six innings, earning the win over Baltimore on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been on a good run since a rocky outing versus Toronto on July 29. Across his last three starts, he's given up just three runs (two earned) in 16.1 innings while striking out 24. The southpaw allowed half of his six baserunners Sunday in a sloppy first inning before settling down to turn in a dominant start. He has a 4.97 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 145:36 K:BB across 116 innings this season. Rodriguez lines up for another favorable home start versus Texas next weekend.
Jul 29 2021Rodriguez (7-6) allowed six runs on seven hits and four walks with eight strikeouts over 3.1 innings in Thursday's loss to Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez flashed good stuff at times but struggled with his command en route to a season-high four walks. The Blue Jays ambushed him for three runs in the first inning, two of them coming on a Teoscar Hernandez double, and eventually chased the southpaw from the game after Rodriguez issued a bases-loaded walk to Marcus Semien in the fourth that made it 5-0. It was the second straight abbreviated start for Rodriguez, who departed his previous outing after one inning due to migraine issues. He'll take a 5.60 ERA and 1.41 WHIP (99.2 innings) into his next start.
Jul 25 2021Rodriguez (illness) is scheduled to start Thursday against the Blue Jays, Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander was pulled from Friday's start against the Yankees after one inning due to migraine issues, but he's feeling better over the past couple days and is poised to start Thursday's series finale with Toronto. Rodriguez had been pitching better of late prior to Friday's brief showing with a 2.83 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 34:5 K:BB across his previous five starts (28.2 innings).
Jul 24 2021Manager Alex Cora said that Rodriguez (illness) felt better Saturday, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was removed from Friday's game against the Yankees after one inning due to migraine issues, and the team told him to report late to the ballpark Saturday. The Red Sox haven't yet announced whether the southpaw will be able to make his next start, but he appears to be trending in the right direction. If he's cleared to pitch, Rodriguez tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Blue Jays on Thursday.
Jul 23 2021Rodriguez left Friday's game against the Yankees after one inning due to migraine issues, according to the MLB Network broadcast. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: At least this is something that gives Rodriguez a chance of making his next start, but for Friday's purposes it was pretty much a worst-case scenario for Rodriguez's managers, as he allowed a run while giving up two hits and a walk in his only inning and could still be on the hook for a loss if things don't go Boston's way. Phillips Valdez replaced Rodriguez and has looked fantastic in the early going.
Jul 16 2021Rodriguez (7-5) earned the win Friday versus the Yankees. He allowed two hits and two walks while striking out eight in 5.2 scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez wasn't overly efficient, throwing 57 of his 97 pitches for strikes, but a depleted Yankees lineup couldn't get anything going against him. The southpaw lowered his ERA to 5.19 with a 1.33 WHIP and 112:23 K:BB across 95.1 innings this year. He projects to make his next start at home in a rematch versus the Yankees next week.
Jul 15 2021Rodriguez won't start Thursday against the Yankees after the game was postponed due to the Yankees' COVID-19 issues, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Yankees are reportedly dealing with positive COVID-19 tests within the organization, so it's not yet clear when the game could be made up or whether the rest of the series will go on as planned. The Red Sox haven't announced their revised pitching plans, but Rodriguez could be in line to start during the team's next matchup.
Jul 7 2021Rodriguez (6-5) took the loss Wednesday versus the Angels. He gave up four runs on nine hits and struck out five in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez struggled early with the Angels scraping together a pair of runs in the first inning. He settled in after that, but Shohei Ohtani and Jared Walsh went back-to-back off the Boston starter in the fifth. The nine hits allowed by Rodriguez were the most he's given up since May 18 and just the second-highest total in his 17 starts. The southpaw has a 5.52 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 104:21 K:BB across 89.2 innings to close out the first half of the season.
Jul 2 2021Rodriguez allowed a hit and two walks over six scoreless frames in Friday's win over Oakland. He struck out six and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez cruised through one of his best outings of the season but couldn't pick up a win after the Athletics forced extra innings. The 28-year-old southpaw has gone six innings in three straight starts after failing to reach that mark in his previous six outings. Over his last two starts, he's given up just two runs in 12 innings while striking out 14. Rodriguez will carry a 5.42 ERA into next week's projected road outing against the Angels.
Jun 27 2021Rodriguez (6-4) allowed two runs on five hits and struck out eight in six innings to earn the win over the Yankees on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez delivered his third quality start in 15 outings this year. The only blemish on his line was a two-run home run by Aaron Judge in the sixth inning. Sunday's win snapped a run of eight straight starts without a victory for Rodriguez. The southpaw carries a 5.83 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 93:19 K:BB across 78.2 innings into his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for next weekend in Oakland.
Jun 22 2021Rodriguez allowed five runs (three earned) on seven hits and a walk while striking out seven across six innings. He did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's win over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A pair of runs crossed the plate in the first inning, but Rodriguez was not charged for them due to two fielding errors. However, Rodriguez became Wander Franco's first victim as the young phenom blasted a three-run homer in the fifth-inning for his first career hit. The 28-year-old's 6.07 ERA and 1.46 WHIP are the highest of his career and he is 0-4 in his last eight starts. His 10.5 K/9 is about the only thing going right for him currently.
Jun 15 2021Rodriguez allowed four earned runs on six hits and one walk while striking out eight across four innings Tuesday against Atlanta. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was handed a five-run lead in the first three innings of the game, but he failed to pitch deep enough to be eligible for the win. He was also hit hard, as he allowed four extra-base hits -- though none were homers -- to allow his four earned runs. That continued a concerning stretch, as since May 1 Rodriguez has made nine starts and allowed at least four earned runs on seven occasions. In this outing he did manage to balance some of that damage with eight strikeouts, which he backed with 17 swinging strikes on 80 total pitches. For the season, Rodriguez now has a 6.21 ERA with a 78:18 K:BB across 66.2 frames.
Jun 10 2021Rodriguez allowed six runs on six hits and three walks with five strikeouts in 4.2 innings in a no-decision versus Houston on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A back-and-forth contest saw Rodriguez labor through his start, needing 106 pitches (64 strikes) to complete 4.2 innings. He was spared the loss when Christian Arroyo hit a game-tying, three-run home run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Rodriguez continues to struggle this year with a 6.03 ERA, 1.45 WHIP and 70;17 K:BB across 62.2 innings. He's expected to make his next start in Atlanta next week.
Jun 5 2021Rodriguez allowed three runs on five hits and a walk with seven strikeouts in 5.1 innings versus the Yankees on Saturday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez gave up a two-run home run to Gleyber Torres in the fourth inning. The southpaw then put two runners on base in the sixth, and Garrett Whitlock allowed one of them to score the game-tying run. Rodriguez has completed six innings just three times in 11 starts this year. He owns a 5.59 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 65:14 K:BB across 58 innings. The 28-year-old lines up to face Houston at home next week.
May 31 2021Rodriguez (5-4) took the loss Monday. He allowed six runs on seven hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 4.2 innings versus Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had a rough second inning, as Houston scored runs on a sacrifice fly and a double play after he allowed the first three batters to reach base. The southpaw also gave up a two-run home run to Jose Atluve in the third and a two-run single to Kyle Tucker in the fifth. Rodriguez will be glad to put May in the rear-view mirror after taking losses in his last four starts. He has a 5.64 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 58:13 K:BB across 52.2 innings this season. The 28-year-old lines up for a road start versus the Yankees this weekend.
May 30 2021Rodriguez won't start as scheduled Sunday against the Marlins since the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Chris Cotillo of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The postponement is expected to push Rodriguez back a day, as he's the probable starter for Monday's game at Houston. It's unclear when Sunday's contest will be made up.
May 23 2021Rodriguez (5-3) allowed four runs on five hits and three walks while striking out six in four innings to take the loss against the Phillies on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez retired two of the first three batters he faced Sunday, but the Phillies put together a two-out rally in the bottom of the first inning and scored four runs to put the southpaw in line for the loss. Rodriguez earned wins in five of his first six starts this year but has now been charged with three consecutive losses. He tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Marlins on Sunday.
May 19 2021Rodriguez (5-2) suffered his second straight loss Tuesday, when he allowed five runs on 11 hits and one walk while striking out six in an 8-0 loss to Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Blue Jays were uber-aggressive against Rodriguez, who likes to throw first-pitch strikes. He entered the night with a first-pitch strike rate of a career-high 66 percent, per Jordan Horrobin of MLB.com. Toronto batters swung at the first pitch 16 times in 26 at-bats, which isn't necessarily a problem, but it can be if the pitcher is missing his target and catching too much of the plate. After winning his first four starts and posting a 3.52 ERA, Rodriguez is 1-2 with a 6.00 ERA in the last four outings. He lugs a 4.70 ERA into his next start Sunday at Philadelphia.
May 12 2021Rodriguez (5-1) took the loss Wednesday as the Red Sox were downed 4-1 by the A's, giving up four runs on seven hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out a season-high nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw didn't get enough run support to survive his mistakes, including a Matt Olson solo shot in the sixth inning. Rodriguez tossed 63 of 99 pitches for strikes, and he'll take a 4.15 ERA and 42:7 K:BB through 39 innings into his next outing.
May 7 2021Rodriguez (5-0) allowed one run on seven hits and three walks while striking out two in five innings to earn the win against the Orioles on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was coming off his worst outing of the season in his last start, but he picked up his fifth win in his first six starts of 2021 on Friday. The southpaw threw 61 of his 91 pitches for strikes and only allowed a run to come across via a one-out single in the bottom of the fifth. Rodriguez has now posted a 3.82 ERA and 1.18 WHIP in 33 innings this year, and he tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Athletics on Wednesday.
May 1 2021News: Rodriguez (4-0) allowed four runs on eight hits while walking one and striking out five over five innings in Saturday's loss to the Rangers. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty had his worst outing of the season and was pulled after only 67 pitches. The 28-year-old only allowed one home run but was getting barreled for the better half of the evening. Rodriguez now has a 4.18 ERA on the year and his inconsistent velocity is something that should be monitored.
Apr 25 2021Rodriguez (4-0) earned the win Sunday against the Mariners after giving up three runs on six hits across seven innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez tossed his longest outing of the campaign and also recorded a second straight quality start. The eight strikeouts represent a season-high mark for the 28-year-old left-hander, who now owns a 3.52 ERA through four appearances. He's slated to take the ball next week during a four-game road series against the Mets.
Apr 20 2021Rodriguez (3-0) allowed two earned runs on three hits and one walk while striking out six across six innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez allowed two solo home runs, but only one other base knock across his six innings of work. It was longest outing of the season, as he had worked five frames in each of his first two starts of the campaign. He's been excellent in early returns, racking up a 18:2 K:BB while maintaining a 3.38 ERA across 16 innings. The only blemish currently on his profile is that he is surrendering 2.3 HR/9, though his ability to limit other baserunners has mitigated the damage thus far. He currently lines up to make his next start in a strong matchup Sunday against the Mariners.
Apr 14 2021Rodriguez (2-0) allowed one run on five hits and a walk while striking out five over five innings as he earned the win over the Twins in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had a bit of a strenuous first inning, as he allowed the Twins to put together three singles and gave up his only run of the day on a sacrifice fly to center by Kyle Garlick. The 28-year-old southpaw didn't let up much thereafter, pitching out of a two-on, nobody-out scenario in the third and giving the Twins nothing more after Jorge Polanco led off the fourth with a double. Rodriguez has yet to top 80 pitches in either outing so far, as the Red Sox continue to monitor his workload early on after he missed all of 2020 with a heart condition and experienced a dead arm period during spring training. He'll look to remain perfect in a meeting with the Blue Jays on Tuesday.
Apr 8 2021Rodriguez (1-0) allowed three earned runs on four hits and no walks while striking out seven across five innings to earn the win Thursday against Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez made an official start for the first time since the 2019 season and had an encouraging outing. He was burned by two home runs, but also racked up seven strikeouts and induced six groundball outs while relying heavily on his changeup. Rodriguez also averaged 93 mph with his fastball, closely resembling his velocity of past seasons. He lines up to make his second start of the season Wednesday at Minnesota.
Apr 6 2021Rodriguez (arm) has been confirmed as Thursday's starter against the Orioles, Chris Cotillo of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was widely anticipated after manager Alex Cora said earlier in the day that Rodriguez would likely return during the upcoming series against Baltimore. Cora said that the team thinks Rodriguez is sufficiently built up to pitch unrestricted Thursday, so he could very well go deep enough to get the win after recently completing a simulated game and a bullpen session.
Apr 5 2021Rodriguez (arm) has a "good chance" to pitch for Boston later in the week, Christopher Smith of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez's bullpen session evidently went well Monday, with manager Alex Cora commenting afterward that the southpaw will likely take the mound later in the week. Expect the club to reveal the exact date of Rodriguez's 2021 debut in the coming days.
Apr 3 2021Rodriguez's (dead arm) velocity in Friday's simulated game was not where it normally is, but the Red Sox are attributing that to the cold conditions and lack of game environment, Alex Speier of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He felt fine physically Saturday and the Red Sox will see how he feels Sunday before making a decision about activating him from the injured list. Obviously, if his velocity was normal, he'd be trending toward getting activated as soon as he's eligible, and that still could happen if the team truly believes that the cold was to blame Friday.
Apr 2 2021Rodriguez (arm) threw three simulated innings at the Red Sox's alternate site in Worcester on Friday, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Browne referred to the injury, which has been attributed to a dead arm, as elbow inflammation. Whichever the case, it's a good sign the left-hander is out of the bullpen and facing live hitters. The Red Sox will evaluate where Rodriguez is at Saturday before making an decisions about when he might return. The pitcher hopes to enter the rotation as soon as April 8 in Baltimore.
Mar 30 2021Manager Alex Cora said Tuesday that Rodriguez (arm) has a "pretty good chance" of opening the season on the 10-day injured list, Alex Speier of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Boston had previously pushed Rodriguez off the Opening Day start after he experienced a case of dead arm late in camp, and though the lefty has since thrown a pair of bullpen sessions over the past three days, he doesn't look as though he'll be ready to go by the time the team first requires a fifth starter in next week's series with the Rays. Rodriguez doesn't seem to have experienced any setbacks in his recovery, but the Red Sox want him to face hitters in live batting practice or a simulated game before clearing him for his season debut. Even if he lands on the IL, Rodriguez shouldn't be sidelined for much longer than the 10-day minimum.
Mar 29 2021Rodriguez (arm) threw another bullpen session Monday, Chris Cotillo of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was initially expected to start on Opening Day but was pushed back due to a dead arm. It's not particularly surprising that he'd be dealing with such an issue, as he missed all of last season after developing a heart condition during his battle with COVID-19. While the heart problem is no longer an issue, the Red Sox may have to handle him carefully for most of the season. It's not yet clear when he's expected to make his season debut.
Mar 27 2021Rodriguez (arm) threw a successful bullpen session Saturday, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was pushed back from starting Opening Day after he experienced a dead arm period, but manager Alex Cora was impressed with the left-hander's performance during his throwing session Saturday. Rodriguez threw all of his pitches and had good control, and the team will see how he reacts Sunday. A better timetable for his return could be revealed once the Red Sox complete their evaluation.
Mar 26 2021Rodriguez (arm) is scheduled for a bullpen session Saturday, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Red Sox announced Friday that the left-hander was pushed back from starting Opening Day after experiencing a dead arm period, band Saturday's bullpen session should provide a better idea for his early-season outlook. Rodriguez is without a timeline for his return, but a strong bullpen session could allow him to avoid the injured list to begin the season.
Mar 23 2021Rodriguez allowed two runs (one earned) on three hits and two walks while striking out one over two innings in Monday's spring game against Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez battled command issues and needed 45 pitches to get his six outs. It was surprising that the outing was cut short after the left-hander threw five innings in his previous start, but manager Alex Cora didn't want to belabor things for his ace, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports. Instead of going deeper into the game, Rodriguez finished his work in the bullpen.
Mar 17 2021Rodriguez allowed one run on two hits and struck out six over five innings in Wednesday's spring game against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez, who was named Boston's Opening Day starter earlier in the day, dominated Minnesota, needing just 51 pitches to get 15 outs. In three Grapefruit League starts, the left-handed Rodriguez has a 2.31 ERA with 14 strikeouts and no walks over 11.2 innings.
Mar 6 2021Rodriguez allowed one run on two hits while striking out two over 2.2 innings in Friday's spring game against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was a big start for Rodriguez, who hadn't gone through a pre-game routine in nearly a year. He missed the shortened 2020 season with myocarditis that developed following a severe case of COVID-19. Other than a second-inning home run to Moises Gomez, the left-hander had little trouble navigating Tampa Bay's roster. He was planned to pitch three innings or 50 pitches and was pulled by manager Alex Cora as Rodriguez neared his pitch limit, per Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Rodriguez, who threw a two-inning simulated game last Sunday, became the first Boston starter to make a progression by pitching into a third inning. He was pleased with his cutter and breaking ball.
Feb 28 2021Rodriguez is scheduled to make his Grapefruit League debut Friday against Tampa Bay, Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That means Rodriguez will toe the rubber in Boston's sixth spring game; however, he did throw a two-inning simulated game Saturday and appears on track as the team's No. 1 starter. "He looked good," manager Alex Cora told Ian Browne of MLB.com. "Actually, we were talking about the fact that he was able to repeat his delivery for two innings. It's a positive. Good stuff. A few pitches over the middle of the plate. As far as mechanics and how he felt, it was a good step towards the right direction." The Red Sox will go with a six-man rotation during the first week of spring games but have not committed to it for the regular season. Whatever happens -- five-man or six-man -- Rodriguez will be part of it and likely be the ace.
Feb 27 2021Rodriguez will pitch a two-inning simulated game Saturday, Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez, who is expected to be Boston's Opening Day starter, has not yet been scheduled to start a Grapefruit League game. Nathan Eovaldi (Sunday) and Garrett Richards (Monday) will throw the first two games, and all of Boston's starters will throw two innings in their spring debuts.
Feb 23 2021Rodriguez threw to live hitters Tuesday, Steve Hewitt of the Boston Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez went through a scary time in 2020, when the heart problems he developed as a result of his battle with COVID-19 prevented him from exercising in any capacity, let alone play baseball. He's going through a normal progression to start camp, however, so he appears to be at minimal risk of opening the season on the injured list. Whether or not he's back to his normal self after not pitching for another year is another question entirely.
Feb 19 2021Rodriguez threw a bullpen session Wednesday and came out of it feeling 100 percent, Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez missed all of last season after developing myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart, as a result of his battle with COVID-19. The issue made it unsafe for him to exercise, so he has plenty of work to do to get back into baseball shape this spring. He'll presumably be brought along slowly, but it looks as though everything is going as planned so far.
Feb 18 2021Rodriguez is a "full go" to start camp according to manager Alex Cora, Christopher Smith of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The news is great to hear following a rather scary 2020 season for Rodriguez. He developed myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart, as a result of COVID-19, making it too risky for him to exercise in any capacity, let alone play professional baseball. He's seemingly made a full recovery and should have plenty of time to ramp up for Opening Day, though exactly where his stuff sits after a year away from the mound remains to be seen.
Dec 15 2020Rodriguez is on track in his recovery from myocarditis and is lined up to be ready for the start of the 2021 season, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez wasn't allowed to exercise in any meaningful capacity last year, let alone play baseball, after developing the condition (an inflammation of the heart) as a result of his battle with COVID-19. While the Red Sox's optimism is very encouraging news, the year off certainly adds risk to Rodriguez's profile this offseason, and the serious nature of the ailment means the team will be very cautious regarding any potential setbacks.
Dec 1 2020Rodriguez (myocarditis) agreed to a one-year, $8.3 million contract with the Red Sox on Tuesday, avoiding arbitration, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He has been gradually ramping up activities this offseason as he attempts to come back in 2021 after a bout with COVID-19 led to Rodriguez battling heart-related complications throughout the 2020 season. This will be Rodriguez's final year with the Red Sox before he becomes a free agent. Since it was a completely lost season for Rodriguez, he settled on the same figure he received last offseason.
Nov 11 2020Red Sox chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom said Wednesday that Rodriguez continues to ramp up his activities after missing the entire 2020 season while recovering from myocarditis, Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez first experienced the heart condition a few weeks after he tested positive for COVID-19 shortly before the start of the Red Sox's summer camp in late June. The lefty eventually reported to the team's facility near the end of camp, but he was shut down for good while he continued to battle heart-related complications when he attempted to increase the intensity of his workouts. After taking a few months off, Rodriguez was cleared to resume light cardio activity in late September, and he appears to have thus far avoided any setbacks in his recovery. Assuming his offseason continues to proceed normally, Rodriguez should face few restrictions, if any, when pitchers and catchers report for spring training in February.
Sep 25 2020Rodriguez (illness) has been cleared to resume light physical activity Friday and is hoping for a normal offseason, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez developed myocarditis, a heart condition, as a result of his battle with COVID-19. He's been shut down from all physical activity all season in order to ease the strain on his heart. He'll begin by going on walks before advancing to a treadmill. Assuming his heart responds well, he'll have a chance to be ready to pitch by the start of next season.
Sep 18 2020Rodrigues (illness) flew to Boston for a checkup, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez did not pitch this season due to myocarditis (inflammation of the heart), an after-effect of COVID-19. He is set to undergo medical tests designed to gauge how well he is recovering. "Yeah, he's doing well actually," said Red Sox manager Ron Roenicke. "He flew back to Boston, just got into town yesterday. I don't know what the results were on the tests that he took, but I can find that out, [and] he seems to be doing well." Teams generally have plans in place for pitchers coming back from injuries, but Rodriguez's condition presents a unique challenge. The Red Sox don't know what to expect from the left-hander, who threw 203.1 innings in 2019.
Aug 1 2020The Red Sox announced Saturday that Rodriguez (illness) will not pitch this season, Alex Speier of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez developed myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, as a result of his battle with COVID-19. Strenuous activity is unsafe for his heart at the moment, and a recent examination indicated that's not expected to change soon enough for him to pitch at any point this year. The team remains hopeful that he'll make a full recovery and will be able to pitch next season.
Jul 31 2020Rodriguez (illness) was examined by the Red Sox's medical staff Thursday, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: "We haven't gotten results yet," Boston manager Ron Roenicke said later in the day. "If we know anything more, I'm hoping I do in the next day or two, then we'll get it to you and see where he is. Hopefully everything is good and we can start at least playing catch with him again." Rodriguez was diagnosed with myocarditis -- inflammation of the heart -- and the condition is believed to be related to COVID-19. The Red Sox are not rushing Rodriguez back, but they are hoping the left-hander can pitch in 1-2 inning stints at some point.
Jul 30 2020Manager Ron Roenicke said Rodriguez (illness) is still a ways away from game action, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez remains shut down as he continues to wait for his bout of heart inflammation (a result of his battle with COVID-19) to subside, and even when he's cleared to resume physical activity, it sounds like he will need plenty of time to build his arm back up. While the southpaw remains sidelined, Matt Hall is a candidate to start in his place.
Jul 27 2020Rodriguez (illness) was removed from the Red Sox's player pool Monday, Chris Cotillo of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move is likely primarily procedural, as Rodriguez remains shut down from workouts until his heart inflammation (a result of his battle with coronavirus) subsides. His absence clears a space for Boston to add Robert Stock, who was claimed off waivers from the Phillies on Sunday. Rodriguez still hopes to pitch this season, but it remains unclear when it will be safe for him to do so.
Jul 26 2020Rodriguez (illness) said he's taking the next week off from baseball activities but has not considered opting out of the 2020 season, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old developed myocarditis -- an inflammation of the heart -- as a result of his battle with COVID-19, but he said Sunday that he "love[s] the sport too much" to consider opting out. Rodriguez will be restricted from any physical activity that's more strenuous than walking for the next week. The left-hander still hopes to pitch again in 2020, but it remains to be seen if/when that becomes medically realistic.
Jul 25 2020Rodriguez (illness) feels good but continues to rest as he recovers from a heart condition, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has been cleared to return to the team following his battle with COVID-19, but he remains sidelined after developing myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, as a result of the virus. It's certainly a positive that he's feeling good, but strenuous exercise could be dangerous to his heart, so there's little for him to do but rest until the inflammation subsides. He's expected to speak to the media in a few days, at which point his return timeline could become more clear.
Jul 24 2020Rodriguez is dealing with a heart condition as a result of his battle with COVID-19, Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez is reportedly dealing with myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, as a result of the coronavirus. He's back in camp after testing negative for the virus, but he's been completely shut down from baseball activities as a strenuous workout would be dangerous to his heart. The Red Sox are reportedly optimistic that he'll be able to pitch at some point this season, but they'll have to wait until the inflammation subsides before they have a clearer picture of when he'll be able to get back on the field.
Jul 23 2020Rodriguez (COVID-19) has been shut down from all baseball activities, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Ron Roenicke said Boston's medical staff discovered some minor complications related to Rodriguez's recovery from the coronavirus. The southpaw is apparently testing negative for the virus, but his body has not physically recovered. He threw a bullpen session Saturday and Roenicke is confident that Rodriguez will be able to pitch at some point in 2020. Boston will have to mix and match this season for the final two spots in the rotation, as they lack healthy, quality starting options in those spots.
Jul 22 2020Rodriguez (illness) could build up to a full workload during major-league games, Chris Cotillo of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was unable to report to camp until Saturday after battling COVID-19. He was reportedly hit fairly hard by the virus, putting him understandably well behind his teammates in his preparation for the upcoming season. He's still on the COVID-19 injured list even though he's been cleared to work out, but while he may remain there at the start of the regular season, the Red Sox appear willing to bring him back for some short starts before he's fully built up his pitch count.
Jul 19 2020Rodriguez was hit pretty hard by COVID-19, experiencing a headache and a fever while he had the virus, Julian McWilliams of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez said he had never been that sick in his life. He has been going through workouts since July 8 in an effort to get ready for the season, so there seems to be a decent chance he could start one of the first five games of the season, but that is still to be determined.
Jul 18 2020Rodriguez (illness) was cleared to join his teammates at Fenway Park on Saturday, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A positive COVID-19 test had kept Rodriguez away from his teammates up to this point and will prevent him from making the Red Sox's Opening Day start (which will go to Nathan Eovaldi). He had been able to throw while away from the team, however, so it's possible he's not too far behind his teammates. When exactly Rodriguez is expected to make his season debut and how many pitches he'll be able to throw in his first few starts remain to be seen.
Jul 17 2020Rodriguez (illness) arrived in Boston on Friday, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old has been absent from camp after testing positive for COVID-19, but he appears to be nearing full clearance. Rodriguez has been throwing during his time away from the team, but manager Ron Roenicke cautioned against a specific return timeline until they see him throwing in person. The left-hander is unlikely to be prepared to pitch Opening Day, but reporting to camp is the first major step in his return to the mound.
Jul 15 2020The Red Sox placed Rodriguez (illness) on the COVID-19 injured list Tuesday, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was one of three pitchers who recently tested positive for the coronavirus that Boston moved to the IL. The southpaw is apparently coming along well in his recovery from COVID-19, as he's been able to do some throwing at home this week while he remains in quarantine. Rodriguez will have to submit two negative COVID-19 test results before he's able to rejoin the team, but even if he's back with the Red Sox before the conclusion of summer camp, he likely won't be included on the Opening Day roster. Once he reports to the team, Rodriguez will still have to ramp up and get his arm conditioned for starting duty, a process that could result in him missing multiple turns through the rotation.
Jul 14 2020Rodriguez (illness) has been able to throw into a net in his backyard while quarantined, Bill Koch of The Providence Journal reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A positive COVID-19 test has prevented the lefty from being able to join his teammates, but he evidently doesn't have a particularly serious case given that he's still been able to work out. It's not clear exactly what sort of workload he'll be able to handle once he's back on the field, nor is it clear when that's expected to happen, though the Red Sox have yet to completely rule him out for Opening Day.
Jul 11 2020Red Sox manager Ron Roenicke has not yet ruled out Rodriguez (illness) for Opening Day but added that time is running out, Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez, who tested positive COVID-19, would need to test negative for the virus twice before he's cleared to travel to Boston. With less than two weeks before Opening Day, Rodriguez is looking doubtful. "There is definitely a time when we'll have to make that decision," Roenicke said. "We haven't yet. We haven't really talked about when that day is. I know he's continuing to stay active with his arm and throwing some. But it depends on how long it goes before he can get a couple test results that come back in our favor." The left-handed Rodriguez had built himself up to four innings during the shutdown, but it's uncertain where he stands at this time. If Rodriguez is unable to make it back for the opener, then Nathan Eovaldi would take the ball July 24 at home against Baltimore.
Jul 7 2020Rodriguez tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, Chris Cotillo of The Springfield Republican reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had yet to join his teammates after coming in contact with someone who had tested positive for the virus and found out Tuesday that he had the virus as well. The lefty is feeling better, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports, but with Opening Day less than three weeks away, it's quite possible he misses time to begin the year.
Jul 3 2020Rodriguez has yet to report to camp as he's currently awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test, Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had been in contact with someone who tested positive for coronavirus and is isolating until he knows whether or not he's been infected. The Red Sox should know shortly whether or not he'll be able to join the team soon.
Mar 12 2020Rodriguez allowed six hits and one walk while striking out 10 over four scoreless innings in Wednesday's spring game against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez padded what was already a promising spring. The downside to all the strikeouts is that the pitch count hit the 80s, and he was unable to work a fifth inning. The lefty has allowed two runs on 11 hits and two walks while fanning 20 over 11 spring innings. Red Sox interim manager Ron Roenicke hasn't announced the Opening Day starter, but as reported by Ian Browne of MLB.com, he told reporters to "figure out the math" to determine who will be on the mound March 26 at Toronto. On a five-day progression going forward, Rodriguez's third turn falls exactly on Opening Day.
Mar 11 2020Rodriguez is emerging as the leading candidate to start on Opening Day against the Blue Jays, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Boston manager Ron Roenicke told reporters Wednesday that he doesn't want to name an Opening Day starter too soon, but he's already told the pitcher. He also mentioned that they could probably do the math and figure it out. Rodriguez is scheduled to pitch in Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Rays and would get the nod in the opener if he continues to start every five days. The 26-year-old posted a career-best 3.81 ERA across 203.1 innings (34 starts) during his fifth campaign with Boston in 2019. If the team's ace, Chris Sale, is forced to miss multiple months to begin the season, Rodriguez will be heavily relied upon to deliver quality innings to a Red Sox team that will likely feature three new members to their starting rotation compared to last year's staff.
Mar 7 2020Rodriguez allowed two runs on three hits and one walk while striking out four over four innings in Friday's spring game against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Interim manager Ron Roenicke was pleased with Rodriguez's execution for a second straight start, reports Dawn Klemish of MLB.com. "He really threw some good breaking balls today. The fastball and changeup are always there, the cutter is good, but he threw some really nice curveballs. It was nice to see," said the manager. The left-hander used his offspeed arsenal to induce several swings-and-misses against the Braves' "A" lineup. Rodriguez is on schedule to start Opening Day.
Mar 1 2020Rodriguez allowed two hits and struck out six over three scoreless innings Saturday against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was sharp again Saturday, five days after looking equally impressive during a simulated game during which he fanned teammate Rafael Devers five times. "He threw some really good pitches. Located his fastball well. Threw some good changeups," interim manager Ron Roenicke told Ian Browne of MLB.com. "He got in a little bit of trouble, but his command is so good [that] he's able to get out of it. He makes pitches when he needs to." After a string of seasons in which a leg injury of some sort curtailed Rodriguez, the left-hander dazzled in 2019, finishing sixth in voting for the AL Cy Young award, tying for the MLB lead with 34 starts and throwing more than 200 innings for the first time in his career. The Red Sox haven't named an Opening Day starter yet, but that honor is expected to go to Rodriguez.
Feb 29 2020Rodriguez (knee) has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for Saturday's spring game against the Yankees, according to Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez's first outing of the spring was delayed a few days because of a sore left knee, but he is ready to take the mound Saturday. He should still have plenty time to build up his stamina before the regular season begins, and with Chris Sale (illness) likely opening on the injured list, he's the favorite to take the ball Opening Day.
Feb 25 2020Rodriguez (knee) is scheduled to start Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees, Alex Speier of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez likely would have started one of Boston's first few games of the spring, but his debut was delayed after he experienced left knee soreness coming out of a bullpen session last week. The southpaw was cleared to resume mound work just a few days later, so he won't find himself too far behind Boston's fellow rotation candidates once he joins the pitching schedule over the weekend.
Feb 24 2020Rodriguez (knee) completed a bullpen session Monday, Julian McWilliams of The Boston Globe reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez's spring debut was pushed back after he hurt his knee during a bullpen session last week, but his ability to get back on the mound a few days later suggests the injury won't threaten his availability for the start of the season. If Rodriguez's knee responded well to Monday's side session, he could be cleared to face hitters in live batting practice later this week.
Feb 22 2020Rodriguez slipped prior to a bullpen session Wednesday and is dealing with left knee soreness, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez has dealt with right knee injuries in the past. He was able to throw two live innings in the bullpen after slipping, but his left knee felt sore the next day. Manager Ron Roenicke downplayed the severity of the injury, but the Red Sox will let Rodriguez rest for a few days before he perhaps letting him throw Monday. The southpaw had been scheduled to pitch in Sunday's game, but the team will now push him back as it works to determine his best path forward.
Feb 13 2020Rodriguez will make $8.3 million in 2020 after losing his arbitration case, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez reportedly asked for $8.975 million. The 26-year-old southpaw is coming off one of his best seasons to date, as he made 34 starts and finished with a 3.81 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 213:75 K:BB in 203.1 innings.
Sep 29 2019Rodriguez allowed three runs on four hits with two walks and eight strikeouts across seven innings during a no-decision against the Orioles on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baseball is a funny game sometimes. Rodriguez allowed seven runs and 11 hits in his last start but won, however, he settled for a no-decision despite holding the Orioles to three runs in seven frames Sunday. The no-decision denied Rodriguez his 20th win. He still turned in a great season, though, going 19-6 with a 3.81 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 213 strikeouts in 203.1 innings.
Sep 25 2019Rodriguez (19-6) picked up the win in Tuesday's 12-10 victory over the Rangers, coughing up seven runs on 11 hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw needed 113 pitches (67 strikes) to record the minimum 15 outs required to quality for the win, but fortunately for Rodriguez, the Red Sox piled on all 12 of their runs in those first five frames. He'll take his shot at win No. 20 in the season finale, at home against the Orioles on Sunday.
Sep 19 2019Rodriguez (18-6) picked up the win on Thursday after holding the Giants to one run (unearned) on two hits and a pair of walks while striking out 10 across six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw continued down his path of consistency, engraving himself as Boston's top pitcher this season. Rodriguez recorded double-digit punch outs for the fourth time this year as he reached new career-highs in innings pitched (191.1), strikeouts (199) and wins (18). He'll carry a 3.53 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 199:70 K:BB into a Tuesday matchup against Texas.
Sep 14 2019Rodriguez struck out 12 batters over 6.2 innings Saturday against the Phillies, allowing just a single run on four hits and a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez was completely dominant through six frames, allowing just a pair of two-out singles. Manager Alex Cora made perhaps an ill-advised decision to let the starter hit with two outs and the bases loaded and just a one-run lead in the seventh inning, though, as Rodriguez went on to walk in the game-tying run in the bottom half of the inning before being pulled with two outs. Despite failing to record the win, it was a dominant start for the lefty, who's now allowed one run or fewer in five of his last six starts.
Sep 9 2019Rodriguez (17-6) gave up one run on five hits and one walk while striking out nine through six innings to take the loss against the Yankees on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez had 14 swinging strikes and 25 called strikes in the quality start. It's been an impressive stretch for Rodriguez, having only allowed four runs in his last 32.1 innings. The 26-year-old has a 3.73 ERA with 177 strikeouts through 30 starts this season. Rodriguez is scheduled to make his next start Sunday against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.
Sep 4 2019Rodriguez (17-5) allowed five hits and four walks while striking out eight across seven shutout innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rodriguez showcased his swing-and-miss stuff, generating 22 swinging strikes to back up his eight punchouts. Though he struggled with his control, Rodriguez was able to escape every jam he found himself in -- particularly in the fourth inning when he stranded the bases loaded. After struggling his way to a 4.65 ERA in 18 starts prior to the All-Star break, Rodriguez has earned a 2.57 ERA in 10 outings since. Overall, he owns a 3.81 ERA and 1.36 WHIP with 17 wins and 168 strikeouts across 172.2 innings. His next start is currently scheduled for Monday against the Yankees.
Aug 28 2019Rodriguez (16-5) earned the win over the Rockies on Wednesday, allowing three runs on nine hits and three walks while striking out five over five innings.
Aug 23 2019Rodriguez (15-5) earned the win Friday after holding the Padres scoreless across seven innings. He gave up five hits and a walk while striking out six.
Aug 17 2019Rodriguez (14-5) picked up the win Saturday, giving up four hits and two walks over 7.1 scoreless innings while striking out four in a 4-0 victory over the Orioles.
Aug 12 2019Rodriguez yielded five runs on 10 hits and three walks over six innings Monday, striking out five batters in the loss to Cleveland. He did not factor in the decision.
Aug 8 2019Rodriguez worked five frames and gave up two runs on seven hits and three walks Wednesday against the Royals before the contest was suspended in the top of the
Jul 27 2019Rodriguez (13-4) earned the win Saturday against the Yankees after allowing three runs on seven hits across 5.2 innings. He struck out five and walked three.
Jul 27 2019Rodriguez (13-4) earned the win Saturday against the Yankees after allowing three runs on seven hits across 5.2 innings. He struck out five and walked three.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 22 2019Rodriguez (12-4) picked up the win in Monday's 9-4 victory over the Rays, allowing two hits and four walks over seven scoreless innings while striking out six.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 17 2019Rodriguez (11-4) picked up the win Wednesday, giving up two runs on three hits and three walks over 6.1 innings while striking out four in a 5-4 victory over the Blue Jays.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 12 2019Rodriguez (10-4) gave up one run on five hits and two walks while striking out 10 in seven innings Friday against the Dodgers. He picked up the win.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 5 2019Rodriguez (9-4) got the win Friday against the Tigers, allowing one run on four hits in five innings of work. He struck out four batters while walking just one.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019Rodriguez allowed two runs on four hits with four walks and five strikeouts across 5.1 innings during a no-decision against the Yankees on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019Rodriguez allowed two runs on four hits with four walks and five strikeouts across 5.1 innings in a no-decision against the Yankees on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 24 2019Rodriguez yielded five runs on six hits and two walks in 6.1 innings Monday, striking out four batters and taking the no-decision in the win over the White Sox.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 19 2019Rodriguez (8-4) gave up four runs and three walks while striking out nine through seven innings, taking the win over the Twins on Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 14 2019Rodriguez (7-4) surrendered one run on six hits and struck out four over seven innings Friday in a win over the Orioles.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 9 2019Rodriguez (6-4) allowed four runs on seven hits with seven strikeouts and two walks while taking a loss against the Rays on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 5 2019Rodriguez (6-3) picked up the win in Tuesday's 8-3 victory over the Royals, allowing two runs on six hits over 5.2 innings while striking out seven.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 31 2019Rodriguez will not start in this weekend's series against the Yankees, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019Rodriguez (5-3) allowed one run on four hits and a walk while striking out five over six innings Sunday in a win over the Astros.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 21 2019Rodriguez (4-3) allowed six runs on six hits with five strikeouts and three walks across five innings while taking a loss to the Blue Jays on Tuesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 15 2019Rodriguez allowed five runs on nine hits and a walk, striking out ten and taking a no-decision after pitching six-plus innings in Wednesday's 6-5 win over the Rockies.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 10 2019Rodriguez (4-2) gave up five hits and a walk while striking out five over seven scoreless innings Friday night in a win over the Mariners.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 24 2018The Red Sox should learn more about Rodriguez (ankle) next week after his walking boot is removed, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez has a history of lower-body injuries, from which his recovery has taken more time than initially expected. We'll learn more next week, but it's entirely possible a rehabilitation stint is in order for the left-hander. In the meantime, Brian Johnson will remain in the rotation, although the Red Sox have scouted starting pitching, including Toronto's J.A. Happ per Bob Elliott of CBC Sports.
Jul 15 2018Rodriguez was diagnosed with ligament damage in his right ankle after being evaluated by team doctors Sunday, Ryan Hannable of WEEI.com reports. He won't require surgery to address the injury, but will be confined to walking boot for two weeks before being re-evaluated.It's yet another troubling setback for the skilled southpaw, whose maturation into a top-of-rotation talent has been derailed by persistent lower-body injuries the past three seasons. Rodriguez's 2018 debut was delayed until April 8 this season while he recovered from reconstructive surgery on his right knee, and it's possible the ankle sprain he sustained in Saturday's start against the Rangers may be related. Red Sox manager Alex Cora is optimistic that Rodriguez will be able to pitch again this season, but a target date for the 25-year-old's return probably won't be established until he's cleared to resume a throwing program. Rodriguez's injury will keep a spot in the rotation open for Brian Johnson coming out of the All-Star break and could prompt the Red Sox to swing a deal for a starting pitcher ahead of the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline.
Jul 15 2018Rodriguez was placed on the 10-day disabled list Sunday with a right ankle sprain, Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez was forced to leave Saturday's start after 5.1 scoreless innings when he sustained the injury during a collision while covering first base. The 25-year-old finished the first half with a 3.44 ERA and 1.22 WHIP with a 110:32 K:BB over 104.2 innings, and will be eligible to return to the Red Sox on June 25, although it remains unclear if he's expected to be sidelined longer.
Jul 14 2018Rodriguez was lifted in the sixth inning of Saturday's tilt after colliding with Lourdes Gurriel, Christopher Smith of MassLive.com reports.Rodriguez was run over by Gurriel while covering first base. After throwing a few practice pitches under the trainer's watch, Rodriguez was removed from the game. The 25-year-old left-hander appears to have suffered a lower body injury, although more news should be released following the game. He tossed 5.1 scoreless innings while allowing four hits and striking out four and he's in line for the win if Boston can hang on to a 1-0 lead.
Jul 14 2018Rodriguez was diagnosed with a right ankle sprain upon his removal from Saturday's tilt, Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports.The X-rays on Rodriguez's ankle came back negative, although it's unclear as to when he'll manage to return to action. The nature of the injury is relatively good news for Boston, as it was initially thought that Rodriguez had suffered a knee injury. He underwent surgery on his right knee in October of 2017.
Jul 9 2018Rodriguez (11-3) surrendered no runs on three hits and three walks while fanning five across 5.2 innings Monday as he notched the victory over the Rangers.Rodriguez needed 105 pitches to get through 5.2 innings, as he came within one out of turning in a quality start. Regardless, he hasn't given up a run over his last two outings (11.2 innings) as he sports a 3.62 ERA and 1.25 WHIP with a 105:32 K:BB over 99.1 innings. Rodriguez's next outing is slated for Saturday against Toronto.
Jul 4 2018Rodriguez (10-3) picked up the win in Wednesday's 3-0 victory over the Nationals, allowing three hits and a walk over six scoreless innings while striking out six.The left-hander looked like he might go unrewarded for his dominance with the score knotted at 0-0 through six innings, but the Red Sox finally broke through for a couple of runs in the top of the seventh to get Rodriguez the win. He'll take a 3.84 ERA into his next outing Tuesday at home against the Rangers.
Jun 30 2018Rodriguez (9-3) took the loss Friday as the Red Sox fell 8-1 to the Yankees, giving up five runs on seven hits and two walks over six innings while striking out two.The left-hander struggled through his second straight poor performance, throwing 55 of 95 pitches for strikes and serving up two of the Yankees' four homers on the night, and Rodriguez's ERA has crept up over half a run to 4.11 over that stretch. He'll try to turn things around Wednesday on the road against the Nationals.
Jun 26 2018Rodriguez altered his game plan in Saturday's loss to the Mariners, a team he was facing for the second time in six days, Bill Koch of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez, who struck out nine Mariners in a start June 17, was conflicted about how he should attack the same team just six days later. Instead of pitching away to Mitch Haniger, who entered Saturday's game 0-for-6 against the left-hander, Rodriguez opted to come inside and was rocked for a pair of doubles and three RBI in a 7-2 loss. "I think he tried to make an adjustment because he felt, 'I went away, away, away. He's going to make an adjustment,'" Cora said. "Well, let him make the adjustment. See what happens. And then you go from there." Rodriguez was spotted in Cora's office before leaving Fenway Park late Saturday. The two watched video of the start with the manager imploring the pitcher to work from his strengths.
Jun 23 2018Rodriguez (9-2) was charged with five runs (four earned) on seven hits and two walks while striking out two over four innings in a loss to the Mariners on Saturday.This was a rare stumble for Rodriguez following a streak of six consecutive appearances in which he earned a win. Afterward, he told the Boston Globe that he battled a lack of command, most notably with his cutter and changeup. He has struggled with efficiency this year but Rodriguez is missing bats at a good clip and the team context is certainly favorable. Next up: Rodriguez heads to the Bronx for the second this season.
Jun 17 2018Rodriguez (9-1) got the win over Seattle on Sunday, giving up two earned runs on six hits over six innings, striking out nine and walking one in Boston's 9-3 victory.Rodriguez just keeps piling up wins, as this was the sixth straight trip to the mound where the 25-year-old right-hander has claimed a victory. The nine wins on the season put him just one short of the career high he set back in his rookie campaign of 2015, and Rodriguez is putting up good numbers to support that total, with a 3.59 ERA, a 1.24 WHIP and a 90:24 K:BB in 77.2 innings. As long as he keeps pitching with this level of consistency, he should be able to continue to put himself in line for victories pitching for a Boston team that figures to keep offering him plenty of run support.
Jun 13 2018Rodriguez (8-1) allowed two runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out four over 5.2 innings in Tuesday's 6-4 win over the Orioles.While the results are good -- Rodriguez is 8-1 with a 3.64 ERA -- this was the eighth time in 13 starts that he's failed to pitch six innings and manager Alex Cora wants more. "Eduardo was good; I think the next step for him is to go deeper into the game and keep that pitch count down," Cora told Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald. Getting deep into games has been a common thread for Rodriguez throughout his career in Boston. Being able to put batters away earlier in counts, particularly with his changeup, is the next step in his advancement. "Sometimes we feel like with his stuff he can bury guys right away," Cora said. Rodriguez will try to put that plan into place Sunday on the road against the Mariners.
Jun 6 2018Rodriguez (7-1) picked up the win in Wednesday's 7-1 victory over the Tigers, allowing one run on five hits and a walk over 5.2 innings while striking out five.The left-hander fell one out shy of his fifth quality start of the season, throwing 67 of 107 pitches for strikes en route to his fourth straight win. Rodriguez will take a 3.68 ERA into his next outing Monday in Baltimore.
May 30 2018Rodriguez (6-1) allowed two runs on three hits and a walk while striking out seven over 6.2 innings in Wednesday's 6-4 win over the Blue Jays.Rodriguez stayed on a roll Wednesday, tying his season high for innings and retiring the first 13 batters faced. A couple of mistakes cost him runs in the sixth inning, but he was as sharp as he's been all season and worked ahead in the count, throwing first-pitch strikes to 19 of 23 hitters faced. Getting deep into games has been recurring issue for the left-hander, but getting those early strikes helped keep his pitch count down early in the game. Rodriguez has a 2.25 ERA over his last five starts as he prepares for his next turn Tuesday against the Tigers.
May 25 2018Rodriguez (5-1) got the win against the Braves on Friday, giving up two earned runs on six hits over 5.2 innings, striking out seven and walking three as the Red Sox ended up with a 6-2 victory.Rodriguez has been sharp of late, with just five earned runs to his name and a 26:6 K:BB over his last 21.1 innings. His 4.02 ERA on the season still isn't spectacular, but that's a bit inflated thanks to a pair of rough starts on April 30 and May 5 where he gave up five earned runs in back-to-back outings. With Rodriguez, the main question has always been whether he can stay healthy enough to show what he can do with his skills over the course of an entire season. If 2018 turns out to be the year where he finally does so, he certainly has the talent to put up good fantasy numbers.
May 20 2018Rodriguez allowed no runs on nine hits while striking out seven across 5.2 innings Sunday as he picked up the win in a 5-0 victory over the Orioles.Despite giving up nine hits, Rodriguez was able to escape with a win after being lifted with two outs in the sixth -- he was just one out short of putting together a quality start. Through nine outings this season, the 25-year-old is sporting a 4.13 ERA and 1.25 WHIP to go along with 58 strikeouts across 48 innings. Rodriguez will aim to record his fifth victory of the year in his next start, which figures to come Saturday against the Braves.
May 15 2018Rodriguez (3-1) allowed three runs on six hits while striking out four over five innings Tuesday against the Athletics.Rodriguez allowed singles to the first two hitters of the contest before Matt Chapman drove a two-run double to right field with two outs in the frame. The lefty was then taken deep by Stephen Piscotty in the second inning but was able to follow that up with three consecutive scoreless frame to keep the Red Sox within striking distance. Rodriguez has been inconsistent in the early going this year, but his strikeout upside makes him worthy of fantasy consideration in most formats.
May 10 2018Rodriguez allowed only one hit while walking three and striking out eight across five innings Thursday against the Yankees.Rodriguez took advantage of the strikeout prone Yankees lineup, needing only eight swinging strikes to earn eight strikeouts. This was a needed strong outing for him, coming off two consecutive starts having allowed five earned runs against the Rangers and Royals. He has been plagued by inconsistency and injuries both this season and throughout his early career, but has plenty of skill as indicated by his 47 strikeouts through 37.1 innings pitched in seven starts this season.
May 9 2018Rodriguez was moved up a day in the Red Sox's pitching schedule and make his next outing Thursday against the Yankees in New York rather than Friday in Toronto, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports.David Price was initially scheduled to pitch in the three-game series with the Yankees, but he was pushed back after developing numbness in his throwing hand that was later diagnosed as a mild case of Carpal tunnel syndrome. Price will throw a bullpen session Thursday and is hopeful to start in Toronto over the weekend, but the unexpected setback will nonetheless result in Rodriguez trading a tough matchup at Rogers Centre for an even more difficult one at Yankee Stadium. Heading into play Wednesday, the Yankees ranked first in the majors by a wide margin with a 126 team wRC+ at home.
May 5 2018Rodriguez allowed five earned runs on four hits while walking two and striking out 10 across six innings Saturday against the Rangers. He did not factor into the decision.Rodriguez was burned by the long ball as he allowed five earned runs despite allowing only six baserunners. However, he allowed two home runs to Joey Gallo and a three-run home run to Delino DeShields. Home runs hadn't been an issue for him entering Saturday's start, so this may just an isolated problem for one start that came in a relatively home run-friendly park. His 10 strikeouts shouldn't be completely overshadowed by his otherwise poor start, as he continues to miss plenty of bats and now has 39 strikeouts through 32.1 innings pitched this season.
May 5 2018Rodriguez was activated from the family medical leave list and will take the hill against Texas on Saturday.Rodriguez was away from the team for the past few days while dealing with a family issue, but will not be forced to miss a start as he's back with the Red Sox ahead of his sixth outing of the season. Through 26.1 innings of work, he's logged a 4.78 ERA and 1.33 WHIP with a 29:11 K:BB. In a corresponding move, the club optioned Bobby Poyner to Triple-A Pawtucket.
May 2 2018Rodriguez was put on family medical leave but remains on track for Saturday's scheduled start against the Rangers, Sean McAdam of the BostonSportsJournal.com reports.Rodriguez will be away from the team for the next few days in order to deal with a family issue. In a corresponding move, the Red Sox recalled Marcus Walden from Triple-A Pawtucket to serve out of the bullpen.
Apr 30 2018Rodriguez allowed five runs on five hits and three walks across four innings in a no-decision Monday against the Royals. He struck out six.Rodriguez got off to a poor start in this one, allowing three runs on two hits, three walks and a bit batsman in the first inning. He settled down for a couple of frames but struggled again in the fourth, when he allowed a pair of runs on another hit batsman ahead of back-to-back doubles. Luckily the Boston offense took off at that point, but the lefty didn't go deep enough into the game to be credited with a win. Rodriguez, who had allowed three runs or fewer in each of his four starts this season heading into Monday, will look to get back on track Saturday against the Rangers.
Apr 25 2018Rodriguez (3-0) got the win Wednesday, allowing three runs on six hits and a walk while striking out three over 6.2 innings against the Blue Jays.The lefty has given up a home run in three of his four starts, but he was able to limit the damage to a solo shot Wednesday en route to earning his third straight quality start. Despite the three-strikeout showing, Rodriguez has still mowed down more than a batter per inning on the year with a 9.3 K/9. He'll also benefit from having a potent offense behind him, which will likely put him in a position to win his fair share of games. He's slated to take on the Royals next time out on Monday.
Apr 19 2018Rodriguez moved to 2-0 with Thursday's 8-2 win over the Angels, giving up two earned runs on three hits over six innings, striking out five and walking three.Rodriguez only lasted 3.2 innings in his first start of the season but he's bounced back with quality starts in each of last two outings to bring his ERA down to 3.45 ERA and his WHIP to 1.28. He's shown that he has the ability to rack up strikeouts in the past, so if he can stay healthy and continue to post serviceable ratios he could establish himself as an under-the-radar solid fantasy option. He'll look to build on the pair of solid showings in his next start against the Blue Jays next Wednesday.
Apr 14 2018Rodriguez earned the win Friday against the Orioles, allowing one run on five hits in six innings while striking out eight and walking two.The lone run Rodriguez allowed was a first-inning sacrifice fly by Adam Jones. Thereafter, the Red Sox lefty settled in and racked up the strikeouts. This was Rodriguez's second start since coming off the disabled list, and he was able to secure the win behind an offense that gave him an early lead. The 25-year-old has had trouble staying healthy, but he's got strikeout stuff when right (9.83 K/9 last year). He'd be slated to face the Angels next outing, assuming the Red Sox don't push back his start to ease him into the rotation.
Apr 8 2018Rodriguez gave up three runs on five hits and two walks over 3.2 innings in a no-decision Sunday against the Rays.Rodriguez's first start of the season was a tough one, as he threw 92 pitches (55 strikes) over just 3.2 innings. However, amid his struggles, Rodriguez managed to strike out seven batters in that time. Rodriguez will look to get on track and rebound from his rocky season debut when he takes the mound Friday against the Orioles.
Apr 8 2018The Red Sox activated Rodriguez (knee) from the 10-day disabled list in advance of his scheduled start Sunday against the Rays.Rodriguez missed only one turn through the rotation after October knee surgery kept him behind Boston's other starting pitchers during spring training. The lefty looks to be ready for a starter's workload after throwing in a simulated game at extended spring training Tuesday, so it's not expected that he'll face any limitations in his season debut. The Red Sox optioned reliever Marcus Walden to clear room for Rodriguez on the active roster.
Apr 5 2018Rodriguez (knee) is scheduled to start Sunday against the Rays, Ryan Hannable of WEEI.com reports.Rodriguez, who is working his way back from October knee surgery, has been cleared to make his 2018 big-league debut after getting through a minor-league start at extended spring training earlier in the week with no issues. The soon-to-be 25-year-old posted a 4.19 ERA and 150:50 K:BB across 137.1 innings (24 starts, one relief appearance) in 2017. The Red Sox will need to open up a spot on their 25-man roster prior to activating Rodriguez from the DL.
Apr 3 2018Rodriguez (knee) could start Sunday's game against the Rays, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports.Previous reports suggested that Rodriguez might need a pair of minor-league rehab starts before returning to the big-league rotation, but this makes it seem as if one may be enough. The Red Sox haven't officially named a starter, though Chris Sale could make that start on normal rest. Regardless, Rodriguez's health will likely dictate how the Red Sox act in this instance. Look for more information once Rodriguez can make a minor-league appearance.
Apr 1 2018Rodriguez (knee) will make a minor-league start in extended spring training Tuesday and will likely need another start beyond that before returning to the Red Sox, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Manager Alex Cora acknowledged that Rodriguez needs a bit more time. "It's strictly his knee and his extension," Cora said. "It's very important for him to be 100 percent. I think this organization has been through the path before and it seemed like it didn't work out so we have to make sure he's completely healthy." This new timeline pushes out the left-hander's earliest return date to April 13.
Mar 31 2018Rodriguez (knee) tossed five innings in a minor-league game Thursday, Christopher Smith of MassLive.com reports. "After what he told me today, he feels right," manager Alex Cora said Friday. "Today he was fine with his knee. He made a few plays yesterday. He went longer than usual."All signs point to Rodriguez being activated off the disabled list relatively soon. He might need just one start at a minor-league affiliate before returning to Boston.
Mar 26 2018Rodriguez (knee) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Monday, Scott Lauber of ESPN.com reports.Rodriguez is recovering from October knee surgery. He had an outside shot at being ready to take his first turn in the rotation, but the Red Sox decided to play it safe. He'll continue to build up his pitch count and, barring setbacks, should be able to take the mound soon after his ten days on the DL are up.
Mar 25 2018Rodriguez (knee) struck out three and walked none over three scoreless innings in a minor-league game Saturday, Chad Jennings of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez was making a final push to get himself ready for the first turn of rotation in the regular season, but the Red Sox backed off that plan and will have him begin the season on the disabled list. Boston has three off-days over the first nine days in April and can give Rodriguez some extra time to build up his pitch count.
Mar 24 2018Rodriguez (knee) will begin the season on the disabled list, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.The Red Sox had been hoping to build Rodriguez's pitch count enough over the next week to have him ready for the first week of the season, but abandoned that plan Saturday. With Rodriguez and Drew Pomeranz (forearm) both ticketed for the DL, Brian Johnson joins the rotation and Hector Velasquez is presumed to be the fifth starter. Rodriguez's stay on the DL is not expected to be a long one and could be ready by mid-April.
Mar 21 2018Manager Alex Cora stated that the chance for Rodriguez (knee) to pitch against Tampa Bay during the first series of the season is "less than 50 percent," The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham reports.Rodriguez remains in play to start Boston's fourth game of the 2018 campaign against the Rays on April 1, but it's looking more and more likely that he will miss at least one start while working his knee back to full health. He recently threw four innings in a minor-league start, during which his knee "felt great," according to Cora. Steven Wright (knee) is also a candidate to start the series finale against Tampa Bay, alongside Hector Velazquez, in the event that Rodriguez is unable to appear.
Mar 20 2018Rodriguez (knee) threw four innings in a minor-league start Tuesday and will be given the opportunity to open the season in the rotation, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports.There isn't much time for Rodriguez to get ready, but manager Alex Cora mentioned the club will accelerate the left-hander's schedule. He's expected to throw three innings on three days rest Saturday. "We're just keeping that door open to see if he's ready to start the season with us," Cora said. "I heard everything was fine. His knee felt great. The stuff was there. We'll see how he reacts tomorrow, but that's the plan -- for him to pitch in four days." He could get one more spring start beyond Saturday and potentially have himself ready to start the fourth or fifth game of the regular season.
Mar 20 2018Rodriguez (knee) is a candidate to start Boston's fourth game of the season, which comes against the Rays, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez has been able to increase his level of activity recently, as he threw live batting practice on numerous occasions over the last week and is scheduled to throw four innings in a minor-league game Tuesday. Manager Alex Cora said that the next step for Rodriguez will likely be pitching in one of Boston's remaining Grapefruit League games, at which point it should become more clear if he'll be available to start early in the year.
Mar 15 2018Rodriguez (knee) tossed three innings of live batting practice Thursday morning, Alex Speier of The Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez continues to make progress, and could appear in a spring training game sometime in the future if his knee responds positively to Thursday's throwing session. Manager Alex Cora stated that Rodriguez won't be rushed back, but he could return sooner than expected if he keeps making strides.
Mar 14 2018Rodriguez (knee) faced live batters Monday, Chad Jennings of the Boston Herald reports.The Red Sox didn't know what to expect as far as a timeline goes following Rodriguez's knee surgery last October. The left-hander's prior recovery times from injuries always went a bit longer than expected, but this one has been different. He resumed throwing in January and got onto a mound earlier than expected in February. Manager Alex Cora is not going to push him, but Rodriguez should be back sooner than the team anticipated last autumn.
Mar 8 2018Rodriguez (knee) is on the verge of throwing a live batting practice session in the coming days but will begin the season on the DL, The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham reports.Rodriguez continues to progress at a solid pace after undergoing right knee surgery in October. He was able to begin mound work last week, throwing a 35-pitch bullpen that included a mixture of fastballs and changeups, and he could be nearing a simulated game if all goes well with the batting practice session. While there isn't a set target date for his return, Rodriguez is likely going to miss most of April.
Feb 28 2018Rodriguez (knee) threw a successful bullpen session Wednesday, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.Everything apparently went off without a hitch in what marked the first time Rodriguez was able to throw off a mound since undergoing right knee surgery in October. He tossed 35 pitches Wednesday, mixing in changeups and fastballs, and said his knee felt strong afterwards. The 24-year-old is now scheduled to throw a 45-pitch bullpen Saturday, and if he gets through that with no issues, he could progress to live batting practice shortly thereafter. While Rodriguez's progress is encouraging, he's still expected to miss a good chunk of April.
Feb 28 2018Rodriguez was able to throw off the mound for the first time since undergoing right knee surgery in October, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.This marked the biggest step forward in Rodriguez's progress since the procedure as he continues to work his knee back up to full strength. His status for Opening Day remains in doubt as it's likely that he will miss a majority of April. Alongside Rodriguez, Steven Wright was also able to toe the rubber for the first time since undergoing his knee surgery last May.
Feb 25 2018Rodriguez (knee) is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day, according to manager Alex Cora, Peter Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.This news is not a real shocker as Rodriguez has not yet thrown off a mound since October surgery on his right knee. Along with Rodriguez, Cora added Steven Wright (knee) to a list of starters unlikely to be ready for April. That leaves a mix of left-hander Roenis Elias, fellow lefty Brian Johnson and right-hander Hector Velazquez competing for a rotation spot.
Feb 25 2018Rodriguez (knee) is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day, according to manager Alex Cora, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.This news is not a real shocker as Rodriguez has not yet thrown off a mound since October surgery on his right knee. Along with Rodriguez, Cora added Steven Wright (knee) to a list of starters unlikely to be ready for April. That leaves a mix of left-hander Roenis Elias, fellow lefty Brian Johnson and right-hander Hector Velazquez competing for a rotation spot.
Feb 24 2018Rodriguez (knee) will resume mound work next week, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez has been working his way back from right knee surgery that he underwent in October, and has consistently progressed through a throwing program over the past month. Though the left-hander continues to stay ahead of schedule, it's expected that he will remain out for the first month of the season while building his arm back up with a few minor-league outings in April.
Feb 3 2018Rodriguez feels offseason knee surgery will enable him to pitch with more confidence, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports. "I just feel way better now," the left-hander said. "I feel like my kneecap isn't going to pop out anymore. That's a good thing, because I feel comfortable now."Rdoriguez underwent right knee patellofemoral ligament reconstruction surgery last October to fix a problem that resulted in three subluxations in a span of two years. The 24-year-old has hinted at a breakout the last three seasons, but the knee has been a recurring damper and contributed to middling results (19-20, 4.23 ERA). He has the stuff to succeed in MLB -- mid-90s fastball, plus changeup, capable sinker and slider -- and will have the confidence in his right knee to deliver at the back end of the Red Sox's rotation.
Jan 18 2018Rodriguez has been able to resume throwing following knee surgery in mid-October, The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham reports.Rodriguez seems to be moving ahead of schedule as it looks like he might be ready to return to action in mid-April, barring any other setbacks to the knee. The left-hander compiled a 4.19 ERA and 1.28 WHIP over a career-high 137.1 innings of work in 2017, and is expected to return to the back end of the rotation for Boston this year. There will likely be further updates on his status as spring training approaches.
Jan 12 2018Rodriguez (knee) agreed to a one-year, $2.375 million deal with Boston on Friday to avoid arbitration, The Boston Globe's Alex Speier reports.This was the first offseason as an arbitration-eligible player for Rodriguez. He was a solid starter in 2017, posting a 4.19 ERA and 1.28 WHIP over 24 starts, but will get a late start on this upcoming season as he's sidelined with a knee injury. The southpaw underwent surgery to reconstruct the patellofemoral ligament in his right knee in mid-October and is likely to miss at least six weeks of the 2018 season.
Oct 17 2017Rodriguez is not expected to return to pitching for six months after undergoing surgery to reconstruct the patellofemoral ligament in his right knee, Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reports.This is a tough break for Rodriguez, as the 24-year-old has missed extended time in three of the past four seasons due to knee issues. That will likely be the case again in 2018, as his estimated recovery timetable lines him up for a return sometime in May or June. A more concrete timetable should become available once he gets back into a throwing program. Rodriguez compiled a 4.19 ERA and 150:50 K:BB in 137.1 regular-season innings in 2017.
Oct 5 2017Rodriguez will likely be used as a left-handed specialist for the ALDS against Houston, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.With the addition of Doug Fister to the active roster, Rodriguez will likely come out of the bullpen, since manager John Farrell stated that Fister would only be used in the rotation. This move doesn't come as much of a surprise considering Rodriguez was hit pretty hard by the Astros on Thursday, allowing five runs on six hits and a pair of walks in 1.2 innings. Although there has been no official word on the rotation beyond the first two games, it seems highly unlikely that Rodriguez will start Game 3 or 4, meaning that he should be available out of the bullpen immediately, effective for Game 1 on Thursday.
Sep 28 2017Rodriguez (6-7) was pummeled for five runs on six hits with two walks and two strikeouts in just 1.2 innings to take the loss Thursday against Houston.Rodriguez struggled from the get-go, surrendering three runs on a bases-clearing double by Marwin Gonzalez in the first inning and two more on an Alex Bregman homer in the second before being pulled with just 50 pitches under his belt. He was on pace to finish with a sub-4.00 ERA for the second time in three years, but this poor performance raised Rodriguez's ERA from 3.91 to 4.19. While the lefty's lined up to start against these same Astros in the ALDS next week should Boston hold on to win the AL East crown, manager John Farrell could opt to go in a different direction after seeing this result.
Sep 23 2017Rodriguez (6-6) earned the win over the Reds on Saturday, allowing three hits and two walks while striking out six over 7.2 scoreless innings.He didn't give up a hit until the fourth inning, and all three hits against him on the day were singles (one of the infield variety). The lefty has been pitching brilliantly throughout September, posting a 2.13 ERA and 30:8 K:BB over his last four starts. Rodriguez endured a rough stretch upon his return from knee surgery, and pitching coach Carl Willis told CSNNE.com that he felt altered mechanics were largely to blame for those prolonged struggles. Now that Rodriguez has regained confidence in the knee and is pushing off the mound better with his lower half, he's looking like a potential playoff starter for Boston.
Sep 17 2017Rodriguez (5-6) allowed three runs (two earned) on seven hits and one walk across 5.2 innings while taking the loss Sunday against the Rays. He struck out seven.Rodriguez allowed an unearned run in the first inning and was lucky to escape a bases-loaded jam with just one more run tacked on in the fifth. He worked into the sixth inning but was chased from the game with an elevated pitch count after Jesus Sucre took him deep for the decisive solo home run. Despite the loss, Rodriguez has pitched well of late, posting a 2.55 ERA with a 24:6 K:BB across 17.2 innings in his last three starts. He will look to keep it going Saturday against the Reds.
Sep 12 2017Rodriguez (5-5) coasted to a win Tuesday, allowing one run on one hit and four walks over six innings while striking out nine in an 11-1 rout of the A's.After giving up an RBI double in the first inning to Jed Lowrie, Rodriguez settled down and watched the Red Sox offense slip into high gear. The lefty has now produced two straight quality starts in September after a rough end to August, but he's struck out at least five batters in 12 straight outings since the beginning of June, posting a 76:24 K:BB in 67 innings over that stretch despite a lackluster 5.37 ERA. Rodriguez will try to keep things rolling Sunday on the road against the Rays.
Sep 5 2017Rodriguez struck out eight Blue Jays over six sharp innings Tuesday, but he didn't receive a decision in the eventual 19-inning win.The young lefty's strong start had already passed into memory by the time this game finally ended 13 innings after he'd departed, but you can be sure that Rodriguez's embattled fantasy owners took notice of his improvement. After all, he'd given up five runs in two straight starts coming in. Walks and homers have remained issues for Rodriguez in his third major-league campaign, as he's failed to evolve much on the mound to this point in his career. However, his strikeout ability and team context keep him in the fantasy conversation.
Aug 31 2017Rodriguez (4-5) allowed five runs on 10 hits and two walks while striking out four batters through five innings during Thursday's loss to the Yankees.Rodrgiuez has now surrendered 17 runs through 22.2 innings over his past four outings. He's now up to a 4.40 ERA and 1.30 WHIP for the campaign, and until he shows more consistency on the mound, it's difficult to turn to him outside of cushy matchups. The southpaw kick-started the year with a 2.77 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 9.6 K/9 through his first nine outings, so the potential is there for deeper settings or daily contests. A date with the Blue Jays at Fenway Park is up next and it could prove to be a rebound spot for Rodriguez.
Aug 26 2017Rodriguez (4-4) earned the loss after allowing five runs on seven hits and one walk through 6.2 innings Saturday against the Orioles. He struck out seven.Rodriguez allowed all five runs on four hits - including a homer - and a walk in the second inning, and that was all the Orioles needed to cruise to a victory. The 24-year-old has been unable to find his groove since returning from the disabled list July 17, compiling a 5.08 ERA in eight starts over that span. Even through his struggles, Rodriguez has been able to miss a good amount of bats, registering a solid 10.10 K/9 over that same eight-game stretch. His next scheduled start is lined up for Thursday against the Yankees.
Aug 21 2017Rodriguez allowed three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out five batters through 5.2 innings during Monday's loss to Cleveland. He didn't factor into the decision.The young lefty has struggled to find consistency since returning from the disabled list July 17 and entered Monday's outing with a 4.78 ERA and 1.47 WHIP during that six game stretch. Rodriguez has maintained an excellent strikeout ratio all season (9.8), and pitching for a winning team is an added bonus. However, considering his recent form, it's not out of the question to be conservative with his matchups. Rodriguez projects to face the Orioles at Fenway Park in his next start.
Aug 16 2017Rodriguez allowed four runs on eight hits and a walk while striking out six batters through 5.1 innings during Wednesday's win over St. Louis. He didn't factor into the decision.The young lefty appeared to be settling into a nice groove with just two runs allowed through 12 innings over his past two starts, so Wednesday's outing was a bit of a letdown. However, outside of an unlucky second frame, he kept the Cards off the scoreboard. Remember, Rodriguez posted an impressive 2.20 ERA and 9.7 K/9 during a seven-game stretch earlier this season, and he's flashed the upside to be a go-to asset in the past. Rodriguez lines up for a daunting road start against Cleveland next.
Aug 11 2017Rodriguez (4-3) allowed no runs on two hits and two walks while striking out seven over six innings, but received no decision Friday against the Yankees.Rodriguez left the contest with a three-run lead after his departure in the sixth inning, but the bullpen fell apart in the late innings, keeping him from a potential win. After failing to do so in four straight outings, he's now posted back-to-back quality starts to lower his ERA to 3.80, making him a player who's trending upward as we near the stretch run. He'll make his next start Wednesday against the Cardinals.
Aug 4 2017Rodriguez (4-3) allowed two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out five across six innings, but received no decision Friday against the White Sox.Rodriguez was solid the first time he faced the White Sox lineup, but gave up a pair of runs in the fourth inning, and although he left the game with a one-run deficit, the offense came up with a run in the bottom of the sixth inning to take him off the hook for a potential loss. His solid outing broke a string of four straight games in which he failed to post a quality start, and in ERA that was once at 2.77 is now at 4.08. Hopefully, he can string together a few more solid performances and regain the trust of fantasy owners. He'll make his next start Friday against the Yankees.
Jul 29 2017Rodriguez allowed four runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out five batters over four innings during Saturday's win over Kansas City. He didn't factor into the decision.Rodriguez has struggled since returning from the disabled list and has now allowed 11 runs through just 14.2 innings. He's still continued to pile up strikeouts, and the lefty started the season with a 2.77 ERA, WHIP and 9.6 K/9 through his first nine outings, so the upside is there. Additionally, pitching for a contender is always a fantasy bonus. Rodriguez lines up to face the White Sox at Fenway Park in his next start.
Jul 24 2017Rodriguez (4-3) allowed four runs on six hits and two walks over 5.1 innings during Monday's loss to the Mariners. He struck out six.Rodriguez showed some signs of rust during his second start back from the disabled list. The southpaw recorded two strikeouts in the opening frame but was roughed up for three runs in the second inning on a Kyle Seager solo shot and Jean Segura run-scoring double. He'll look to put together a better showing during his upcoming scheduled start against the Royals on Sunday.
Jul 17 2017Rodriguez allowed three runs on six hits and four walks while striking out eight batters over 5.1 innings during Monday's loss to Toronto. He didn't factor into the decision.This was Rodriguez's first start since June 1 because of a stint on the disabled list with a knee injury. The lefty struggled early Monday, but he settled in and fared well considering his lengthy absence. Boston has championship aspirations and projects to provide ample run support, so it's a solid fantasy setup, and Rodriguez now sports an impressive 3.66 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 9.9 K/9 for the year. He lines up to make his next start on the road against the the Angels.
Jul 17 2017Rodriguez (knee) was activated from the 10-day disabled list in advance of his start Monday against the Blue Jays.Following a successful three-game rehab assignment split between Double-A Portland and Triple-A Pawtucket, Rodriguez is ready to make his first start with the big club since June 1 after a knee injury sidelined him for a month and a half. The lefty worked up to 94 pitches in his last outing with Pawtucket on July 9, so he shouldn't face any restrictions in his return to the Red Sox. Rodriguez is in line to make his second start of the week Sunday against the Angels.
Jul 10 2017Rodriguez (knee) allowed one run on six hits and no walks while striking out seven over 6.1 innings in a rehabilitation start for Triple-A Pawtucket on Sunday.Rodriguez threw 94 pitches (61 strikes) and carried a shutout into the seventh inning. It was easily the best of his three rehab starts and suggests he's ready for a return to Boston's rotation. The Red Sox have him scheduled to start in Toronto next Monday.
Jul 8 2017Rodriguez (knee) will start for the Red Sox on July 17 against the Blue Jays, Jen McCaffrey of MassLive.com reports.The Red Sox set their rotation for the first two series after the All-Star break, and it includes Rodriguez being activated off the disabled list to start at home against Toronto. Of course, that's pending the left-hander's final rehabilitation start Sunday. Barring a setback Sunday, Rodriguez will rejoin Boston's starting rotation.
Jul 6 2017Rodriguez (knee) will make one final rehab start with Triple-A Pawtucket on Sunday, Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reports.There was some speculation that the southpaw would be activated before the All-Star break in order to provide bullpen help, but the Red Sox will instead keep him on his rehab assignment and on track to rejoin the rotation after the break. Barring any extraneous circumstances, Rodriguez would likely be in line to start one of the Red Sox's first games out of the break against the Yankees.
Jul 5 2017Rodriguez (knee) will rejoin the Red Sox and throw a bullpen session before the team determines the next step, Christopher Smith of MassLive.com reports.Rodriguez could make a third rehabilitation start Sunday or be activated and available out of Boston's bullpen over the final two games before the All-Star break before rejoining the starting rotation to begin the second half of the season. Manager John Farrell said the left-hander came out of his second rehab start Wednesday feeling good physically, prioritizing that over Rodriguez's sketchy command (five walks). The concern with Rodriguez is whether or not he's tentative on his knee, something that became an issue in 2016 when he opened the season with a knee injury. He covered first base a couple of times and fielded a bunt on the third base side without incident Wednesday.
Jul 5 2017Rodriguez (knee) allowed four runs on four hits and five walks while striking out five over four innings in a rehabilitation start for Triple-A Pawtucket.Rodriguez got his pitch count up to 88, but the results weren't much better than his first rehab start. The Red Sox will huddle up to evaluate Rodriguez's performance and determine if he's ready to be activated off the disabled list for the first rotation turn following the All-Star break.
Jul 3 2017Updating an earlier report, Rodriguez (knee) isn't expected to return to the Red Sox's starting rotation before the All-Star break, Tim Britton of The Providence Journal reports.While it was originally reported that he may start against the Rays on Sunday, it now appears the Red Sox will wait until after the All-Star break to reinsert him back into their rotation. He could still return to the bullpen before the break, but that will likely hinge on how he feels following his rehab start for Triple-A on Tuesday. It's also possible that he sticks around and makes one more minor-league rehab start.
Jul 3 2017Rodriguez (knee) will start for Boston on Saturday if Tuesday's rehabilitation start for Triple-A Pawtucket goes well, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez's first rehab start last Thursday didn't go well as far as results are concerned, but these starts are more about how the pitcher feels after throwing in a competitive environment. From that standpoint, the left-hander remained on schedule. A followup bullpen session Saturday went without incident.
Jul 1 2017Rodriguez (knee) is set to make another rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Pawtucket, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez went through a bullpen session Saturday, and the team determined that he needed one more rehab outing before returning to Boston. During his start for Double-A Portland on Thursday, Rodriquez gave up five earned runs off nine hits while striking out three over the course of three innings. If all goes well for the southpaw in Pawtucket, he could return for the final game before the All-Star break.
Jul 1 2017Rodriguez (knee) threw a bullpen session Saturday and could return to the rotation as early as Tuesday against the Rangers, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.This is just speculation at the moment, as the Red Sox have not addressed Rodriguez's return date specifically. His rehab start Thursday did not go well in terms of results, but he was able to log three innings. It would not be surprising for the Red Sox to take a cautious approach and send their young lefty out for another rehab outing before he replaces Doug Fister in the big-league rotation.
Jul 1 2017Rodriguez (knee) has joined the Red Sox in Toronto and will throw a bullpen session Saturday, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez made his first rehabilitation start Thursday and the results were not hopeful. He allowed six runs (five earned) on nine hits over three innings and 69 pitches (46 strikes) for Double-A Portland. The Red Sox are holding out hope the left-hander will return before the All-Star break, and we'll know more following Saturday's bullpen session under the watchful eye of Boston's coaching staff.
Jun 24 2017Rodriguez is scheduled to throw 75-80 pitches in a rehab start for Double-A Portland on Thursday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.General Manager Dave Dombrowski stated Friday that he hopes Rodriguez will be ready to return by the All-Star break. His rehab outing of 75-80 pitches would put him in line for a return after one or two starts in the minors, but a firmer timetable could surface following his first Thursday.
Jun 23 2017Boston GM Dave Dombrowski said he hopes Rodriguez (knee) will rejoin the starting rotation after the All-Star break,Ryan Hannable of WEEI.com reports.Rodriguez has been slowly working his way back from a knee injury suffered earlier this month and should be able to begin a rehab assignment soon. Nonetheless, the Red Sox will turn to newly-acquired Doug Fister as their fifth starter until the young left-hander is able to return to the big league roster. Look elsewhere for starting pitching depth until July 14.
Jun 22 2017Rodriguez (knee) threw a bullpen session Wednesday and will go through fielding drills off the mound Friday, Chad Jennings of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez will throw a 30-pitch live batting practice session Saturday with the hope he can begin a rehabilitation assignment after that. Manager John Farrell is "hopeful" the left-hander will need only one minor-league game before he's activated.
Jun 21 2017Rodriguez (knee) executed a round of agility and cardiovascular drills on the field Tuesday, Chad Jennings of the Boston Herald reports.Rordiguez has been throwing bullpen sessions for a week now but the Red Sox wanted him to get on the field and execute some change-of-direction and participate in pitcher's fielding practice. The left-hander came through it just fine is in line to face live batters Saturday. That puts him on scheduled to begin a rehabilitation assignment by the middle or late part of next week.
Jun 19 2017Rodriguez (knee) is expected to face live hitters this week before possibly heading out on a rehab assignment, Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reports.Rodriguez was able to get through a bullpen session with no issues Sunday, bringing him one step closer to returning to game action. If all goes well this week, he could be cleared to resume a rehab assignment four days after facing live hitters. Barring any setbacks, the Red Sox are hoping to have the southpaw back sometime in early-July.
Jun 19 2017Rodriguez (knee) threw a bullpen session Sunday, Chad Jennings of the Boston Herald reports.This marks the second bullpen session for Rodriguez, but more significant tests await when he left-hander proceeds to on-field running and agility drills. "There's a progression that's going on, and all the while still able to keep his arm in shape, which is the obvious positive in all of this," said manager John Farrell.
Jun 15 2017Rodriguez (knee) threw off a mound Thursday, Evan Drellich of CSN New England reports.This is a big step toward the young left-hander getting back to action, although he still has several steps to go. Rodriguez hasn't completed any agility drills to this point, so he'll likely need to get back to that before he's cleared to pitch in a game setting, leaving his timetable very murky at this point.
Jun 7 2017Rodriguez (knee) played catch Wednesday while throwing from a semi-windup position, The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham reports.Rodriguez still does not have a timetable for his return but is currently resting his knee over the course of the next 3-to-4 weeks while he keeps his arm in shape. The southpaw has not been given the green light to throw from the mound yet, and likely still has a ways to go before completing a rehab assignment.
Jun 6 2017Red Sox manager John Farrell said Tuesday that Rodriguez (knee) would begin throwing off flat ground "in the coming days," Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Though Rodriguez will continue to keep his arm in shape while he recovers from knee discomfort, he remains without an official timetable for a return, and likely won't have one until he's cleared to pitch off a mound again. Previous reports have suggested that Rodriguez won't ramp up his workouts for another 3-to-4 weeks, so it may not be realistic to expect him back before the All-Star break.
Jun 5 2017Rodriguez (knee) will rest his knee for 3-to-4 weeks per the suggestion of Dr. James Andrews, Evan Drellich of CSN New England reports.Rodriguez sought out a second opinion on his ailing knee Monday, and although no ligament damage was found, there's a decent chance that the southpaw won't be available to pitch until the end of the season. The Red Sox also haven't ruled out surgery altogether, as it may be necessary later on in the season or during the offseason if the rest alone doesn't help. Overall, this is still tough news, as it's hard to envision him making many more starts this season. More information on a potential return date should come forth once he begins ramping up his activities again, which could be in early July.
Jun 3 2017Rodriguez (knee) will get a second opinion from Dr. James Andrews on Monday, Evan Drellich of CSNNE.com reports.He landed on the DL with knee discomfort on Friday after falling over in the bullpen while warming up for Thursday's start. Despite that fall, which triggered the knee injury, Rodriguez was allowed to start Thursday's game and proceeded to give up a career-high four home runs in 5.2 innings against the Orioles. He has a history of partially dislocated kneecaps, missing two months at the start of last season with a right knee subluxation, but the Red Sox are saying this injury is less serious. "In spring training [2016] when he went down, that was much more severe than what we saw (Thursday) night," manager John Farrell said. It remains possible that he will be able to return in a couple weeks after missing one or two turns in the rotation, but more should be known following his visit with Dr. Andrews.
Jun 2 2017Rodriguez will be placed on the disabled list after suffering a knee injury when he slipped during warm-ups Thursday night, Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports.So far the injury is just being labeled as discomfort, although something else may be revealed if Rodriguez is sent for tests. He gave up seven runs on eight hits, including four home runs, in Thursday's start, and the knee injury may have contributed to his struggles. Brandon Workman was recalled from Triple-A to serve as bullpen depth as a corresponding move. Brian Johnson is the obvious candidate to step into the rotation while Rodriguez is out.
Jun 2 2017Rodriguez (4-2) allowed seven runs on eight hits, including four home runs, while striking out six over 5.2 innings in Thursday's 7-5 loss to Baltimore.The results clearly were the worst of the season for Rodriguez who hadn't allowed more than three earned runs in any of his previous nine starts. The left-hander had pockets of effective pitching Thursday but made too many mistakes and the Orioles were all too happy to capitalize. Rodriguez retired 15 of the first 19 batters, but unfortunately two of those he didn't retire hit mistakes over the fence. Two more pitches up in the zone in the sixth inning resulted in homers, and he was yanked with Boston down, 7-1. Rodriguez, whose ERA climbed to 3.54 after Thursday's outing, is scheduled to pitch next Wednesday in New York against the Yankees.
May 26 2017Rodriguez (4-1) pitched six scoreless innings, allowing five hits and three walks in a 3-0 win over Seattle on Friday. He struck out four.Rodriguez continues to shut down opposing lineups. In his last seven starts, he's allowed just 11 earned runs over 44 innings pitched. The 24-year-old southpaw's 9.6 K/9 on the season is certainly impressive, and he's showing no signs of slowing up anytime soon. He'll take the mound again on Thursday in a road tilt against Baltimore.
May 21 2017Rodriguez (3-1) allowed three runs on six hits (one homer) while walking one and striking out eight over eight innings in Sunday's 12-3 win over the Athletics.It was the young lefty's second straight victory and sixth straight quality start of 2017. Were it not for a five-run ninth inning by his own offense, there's a good chance Rodriguez would've had a shot at his first career complete game. The talented southpaw also retired 14 of the final 15 hitters he faced to lower his ERA to 3.10. If he can go deeper into more starts like Sunday, Rodriguez's 10.0 K/9 will serve him and his fantasy owners very well.
May 17 2017Rodriguez (2-1) allowed three runs on five hits and two walks while striking out five over six innings in Tuesday's 6-3 win over the Cardinals.This was Rodriguez's fifth straight quality start, a span in which he's posted a 2.40 ERA, struck out 32 and allowed one home run in 30 innings. The Red Sox have been waiting three seasons for Rodriguez to become the consistent starter he's showed thus far in 2017. They'd like to see him get deeper into games -- his average start this season is 5.7 innings and 101 pitches -- but he's been a big aid to the team which has been dealing with injuries in the rotation. His next start is scheduled for Sunday in Oakland, a team that ranks 26th in runs scored.
May 11 2017Rodriguez allowed one run on three hits while striking out five batters during Thursday's win over Milwaukee. He did not factor into the decision.The lefty is settling in and pitching well for Boston. Following his tidy outing against the Brewers, Rodriguez sports a 2.80 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 10.7 K/9 with a 30.3 strikeout percentage. Those are excellent numbers, and with the Red Sox capable of providing plenty of run support, it's a little surprising Rodriguez has just a single win this season. He'll look to pick up his second win of the campaign in a road start against St. Louis next week.
May 6 2017Rodriguez allowed three runs on seven hits and one intentional walk while striking out six over six-plus innings in Friday's 4-3 loss to the Twins.Rodriguez, who made his third consecutive quality start, has struck out 37 over 29.1 innings and sports a 3.07 ERA, indicating 2017 might be his breakout season. The left-hander still hasn't managed the art of the efficient outing, which involves consistently putting batters away on two strikes, but for him to make it through six innings is notable. He averaged 5.1 innings per start last season and is up to 5.2 innings through his first five starts of 2017. His next turn in the rotation comes Thursday at Milwaukee but an off-day Monday means he could pitch on normal rest Wednesday.
Apr 30 2017Rodriguez allowed one run on five hits (one home run) while walking two and striking out nine over six innings for a no-decision in Sunday's 6-2 win over the Cubs.Aside from his four-run outing in his season debut, E-Rod has allowed just four earned runs in his last three starts, dropping his ERA to a clean 2.70. The main damage he allowed in this one was a solo homer to Kris Bryant in the fifth inning. Rodriguez came into the season as an interesting sleeper arm and is delivering on it so far. He has fanned 31 while walking 14 in his four starts. Things are looking up for the promising 24-year-old.
Apr 24 2017Rodriguez (1-1) allowed one hit and five walks while striking out seven over six shutout innings in Sunday's 6-2 win over Baltimore.The left-hander benefited from a four-run explosion of offense in the first inning when Boston's power bats woke up. Rodriguez took it from there, retiring the first nine Orioles he faced and didn't allow a hit until the fifth. He tired in the sixth, walking the bases the loaded before getting out of it unscathed. After a couple of middling starts to open the season, this was the best Rodriguez has looked. He's next scheduled to pitch Saturday at home against the Cubs.
Apr 20 2017Rodriguez struck out two in an inning of relief in Wednesday's 3-0 loss to the Blue Jays.Rodriguez, who had been away from the team on paternity leave, returned Wednesday and threw on what would have been his normal in-between starts side session. He's on schedule to start Sunday in Baltimore.
Apr 19 2017Rodriguez (personal) was activated from the paternity list Wednesday and will be available out of the bullpen, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.As expected, the southpaw is able to return to the team and even appear in relief if necessary given that he missed his scheduled start Tuesday. Following his activation, Rodriguez appears to be lined up to start Sunday's contest against the Orioles. Brian Johnson was sent back to Triple-A to open up a roster spot.
Apr 19 2017Rodriguez will be available for as many as four innings out of the bullpen Wednesday against the Blue Jays, WEEI's Rob Bradford reports.He appears poised to piggyback Rick Porcello's start, and if both pitchers pitch fairly well, they may be the only two arms the Red Sox turn to, which could give Rodriguez a chance at a win or a save. Make sure he is in the lineup in leagues with daily transactions, even though he is not getting the start. Rodriguez is still scheduled to start Sunday in Baltimore after missing Tuesday's start due to the birth of his child.
Apr 18 2017Rodriguez could return to the Red Sox on Wednesday, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.If the Red Sox deplete their relief options Tuesday, Rodriguez could be available out of the bullpen for Wednesday's game, but otherwise he will likely return to the Red Sox on Thursday. Given that the Red Sox don't have plans to switch their rotation, Rodriguez's next start upon activation should come Sunday, April 23 against the Orioles.
Apr 17 2017Rodriguez was placed on the paternity list and will miss his scheduled start Tuesday against the Blue Jays, Jen McCaffrey of MassLive.com reports.Rodriguez is awaiting the birth of a baby boy and will be away from the team for the next few days. It's only expected that Rodriguez will miss the one start, with Brian Johnson likely to take his place temporarily in the rotation.
Apr 17 2017Rodriguez, who was scheduled to start Tuesday, will go on paternity leave, according to Rob Bradford of WEEI.com.Bradford also reports he's hearing that Brian Johnson will be part of the plan to replace Rodriguez on Tuesday, although nothing has been confirmed at this point.
Apr 13 2017Rodriguez (0-1) allowed three runs -- two earned -- on four hits and four walks while striking out eight batters over 5.1 innings during Thursday's win over Pittsburgh.Rodriguez entered 2017 with 41 career starts over the previous two seasons and showcased plenty of potential, especially in the strikeouts column. However, the 24-year-old lefty is off to a slow start this year with a 5.23 ERA and 1.51 WHIP. The strikeouts are there (13 through 10.1 innings), and Boston should provide plenty of run support, so there is still a lot of upside. You just might want to be selective with the opponents you start Rodriguez against until he strings together a few solid outings.
Apr 9 2017Rodriguez allowed four runs on five hits and three walks while striking out five over five innings in Saturday's 4-1 loss to the Tigers.Rodriguez handled the Tigers' dangerous bats at the top of the order, but got into trouble with the lower third. James McCann, JaCoby Jones and Jose Iglesias combined for two home runs, two doubles and four runs.
Apr 6 2017Rodriguez's scheduled start Thursday against the Pirates has been postponed due to rain, MLB.com's Adam Berry reports.The two teams are scheduled for a make-up game April 13, but it's unclear when Rodriguez will make his next start for the Red Sox, who are headed to Detroit for a four-game series that opens up Friday.
Apr 6 2017Rodriguez may take the mound Saturday instead of Friday after his Thursday outing was postponed due to rain, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.Manager John Farrell is considering using the southpaw to split up the right-handed pitchers, with Steven Wright sticking with his Friday assignment and Rick Porcello settled in for Sunday. Keep an eye on how Farrell assigns the hurlers for the coming weekend series against the Tigers.
Mar 28 2017Rodriguez had a particularly bad inning against the Orioles on Monday that did not please manager John Farrell, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports. "The fourth inning, there were some things inside there, whether it's backing up home plate or just being a little bit more attentive. That's got to be more consistent throughout, particularly as a starting pitcher. Those lapses can come back to bite you," said the manager.Rodriguez had his worst outing of the spring, allowing six runs (four earned) on nine hits and one walk while striking out three over six innings. The defense wasn't great behind him, but the left-hander gave up plenty of loud contact. While it's a minor step back in what has been encouraging spring training for Rodriguez, fixing a lapse of focus is much easier than something physical.
Mar 22 2017Rodriguez pitched 5.2 innings in a game for High-A Salem on the back fields of the Red Sox's training facility in Fort Myers (Fla.) on Wednesday, Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez tossed 85 pitches (59 for strikes) and struck out eight while walking one. He admitted pitching to minor leaguers is not the same as facing major leaguers, but was pleased to throw all of his pitches. With David Price (elbow) expected to begin the regular season on the disabled list and the uncertainty surrounding Drew Pomeranz (triceps), Rodriguez is certain to start the season in the rotation. Once there, his performance will determine how long he remains there.
Mar 18 2017Rodriguez has improved the depth of his slider as well as being able to throw it to both sides of the plate, Evan Drellich of the Boston Herald reports. "It's that pitch that has advanced him a little bit more this spring," said manager John Farrell.Rodriguez allowed two hits and three walks while striking out six in four scoreless innings Friday, giving him a 2.08 ERA with 13 strikeouts and five walks over 13 innings. His performance this spring, coupled with a strong finish to 2016, points to him being an important piece of Boston's rotation, particularly with the uncertainty surrounding David Price.
Mar 12 2017Rodriguez allowed one run on three hits and one walk while striking out three over four innings in Sunday's game against the Phillies, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez got touched for a home run in the third, but once again looked like a pitcher who will be part of Boston's rotation to start the season. His fate is somewhat tied into David Price's rehab from an elbow injury, but if Rodriguez pitches well, the Red Sox can use that as an excuse to really take it slow with Price's return. In three spring starts, the 23-year-old Rodriguez has allowed three runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out seven. "I feel normal with everything," he said. "Now I'm just concentrating on my mechanics and my consistency with my pitches."
Mar 7 2017Rodriguez has been a more confident pitcher this spring, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports. "It feels really good, and my confidence is really good," Rodriguez said after allowing two runs in three innings Tuesday. "My pitches are going right where I want them, and my position to throw the ball is really good. My mechanics are really good."Even before Rodriguez suffered a dislocated kneecap last year, he was tentative on the mound, cognizant of his habit of tipping pitches. Then, after the injury cropped up, he modified his mechanics to limit the amount of stress on his landing leg. That version of Rodriguez is nowhere to be found this spring. With David Price (elbow) uncertain for Opening Day, the left-handed Rodriguez has a strong chance to break camp with Boston for the first time in his career.
Mar 2 2017Rodriguez did not allow a hit or walk and struck out two over two innings in Thursday's game against Tampa Bay.Rodriguez used all three of his pitches, hitting 94 mph on the stadium gun and, most importantly, emerged from the outing feeling healthy. This outing, his first start since suffering a minor knee injury over the winter, was already a significant one for the Red Sox but took on greater importance after it was announced David Price had an appointment to visit two renowned elbow specialists. The hand-wringing over three starters -- Rodriguez, Steven Wright and Drew Pomeranz -- for two rotation spots appears to have solved itself. If Price is out to open the season or misses an extended period of time, Rodriguez is the obvious fill-in.
Feb 28 2017Rodriguez is scheduled to start Thursday, Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe reports.All signs point to his recovery from knee surgery as complete, or very close to it. It is believed that Rodriguez is currently ahead of Drew Pomeranz and Steven Wright in the battle for the final two spots in the Boston rotation to begin the season.
Feb 25 2017Rodriguez showed no hesitation in his delivery while throwing his first live batting practice Saturday, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez will make his spring training debut Thursday as he returns from an offseason knee injury. The 24-year-old has been held out from certain drills thus far in camp, but it appears all systems are go at this point. More importantly, pitching coach Carl Willis said that Rodriguez is ahead of both Drew Pomeranz and Steven Wright for the final two spots in the rotation, a strong indication that he'll be a player to monitor this spring.
Feb 23 2017Rodriguez (knee) will work his first live batting practice of spring Friday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez continues to work his way back from the knee issue he suffered in December during Venezuelan winter ball. The Red Sox will bring him along conservatively, but barring any setbacks in camp or the World Baseball Classic, he should be ready for Opening Day. The next question: Will he break camp in the rotation?
Feb 18 2017Rodriguez (knee) is participating in pitching activities, but being held back from fielding drills, Jen McCaffrey of MassLive.com reports.Rodriguez threw his first bullpen session on Wednesday since sustaining a minor injury during winter league action. He's expected to pitch for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic, but clearly isn't back to full strength as of Saturday. Keep tabs on Rodriguez as he continues to progress in his recovery.
Feb 15 2017Rodriguez (knee) threw a controlled bullpen session Wednesday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.It marked a major step in the recovery process for Rodriguez and manager John Farrell called it "a step in the right direction." Nonetheless, expect a few more bullpen sessions from the fireballer before he sees any game action. Rodriguez says he will participate in the World Baseball Classic, a good tune-up before the season begins. The left-hander is currently competing for a spot in the rotation, but could begin 2017 in the bullpen.
Feb 14 2017Rodriguez (knee) will throw a bullpen session Wednesday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.The Red Sox are going easy on its three starters competing for the final two spots in the rotation. None of the group that includes Rodriguez, Steven Wright (shoulder) and Drew Pomeranz (elbow) have thrown off a mound yet, though all participated in Tuesday's fielding drills. Because there are more days in spring training this year, a consequence of the need for pitchers participating in the World Baseball Classic to prepare themselves, manager John Farrell can use those extra days to take things slow with the three starters.
Feb 8 2017Rodriguez (knee) will be part of Team Venezuela in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.He suffered a knee injury during winter ball, but Rodriguez's inclusion on the Venezuela roster should help ease any lingering concerns about his health heading into the spring. The lefty finished 2016 on a high note, posting a 2.89 ERA and 30:7 K:BB in five September starts, but he could be the odd man out of a rotation spot to begin the regular season. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski said last month that Drew Pomeranz and Steven Wright are "penciled in fourth and fifth," although there's always a chance an injury or poor performance in the spring could force a change of plans.
Jan 19 2017Rodriguez (knee) is expected to be 100 percent by the time spring training comes around, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.The left-hander injured his knee during a winter league game, although manager John Farrell doesn't seem too concerned about the ailment in the long run. There is a chance that Rodriguez begins the season in the minor leagues due to neither Drew Pomeranz or Steven Wright having minor league options remaining. However, the Red Sox still see the 23-year-old as a big part of their future, meaning he'll likely spend a considerable amount of time in the big leagues in 2017 regardless of where he starts the campaign.
Jan 9 2017Rodriguez (knee) may open the 2017 season in the rotation for Triple-A Pawtucket because he has minor-league options, Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reports.Rodriguez, who is recovering from a minor knee injury sustained during winter ball, could be on the outside as Drew Pomeranz and Steven Wright, both of whom were All Stars last season and are out of minor-league options, are "penciled in fourth and fifth," according to Red Sox president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, who sat down with Buster Olney on the "Baseball Tonight" podcast. The Red Sox still consider Rodriguez as "one of the best young pitchers in the game," but they can maximize roster flexibility by having him start in the minors. That may be the plan here in January, but there's still some time before Boston actually sets the rotation for 2017.
Jan 7 2017Rodriguez (knee) is expected to be ready for spring training, Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez is walking without pain after injuring his right knee while pitching in Venezuela on Dec. 27. The left-hander will be headed to Boston soon to have team medical staff examine him. His plan to pitch for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic has not been scrapped yet, but we should learn more after Boston's medical team gets a look at Rodriguez.
Dec 31 2016Rodriguez (knee) is not expected to pitch again until spring, Scott Lauber of ESPN Boston reports.Rodriguez injured his knee last Tuesday, slipping on a wet mound in Venezuela, an injury Red Sox president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski characterized as "a tweak". He added that there's a chance Rodriguez's start Tuesday was the left-hander's final one in winter ball. It's too soon to tell whether or not Rodriguez will be able to pitch for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic.
Dec 28 2016Rodriguez left a winter league game in Venezuela after tweaking his right knee on Tuesday, the Boston Herald's Jason Mastrodonato reports.While it is not considered a serious injury, the Red Sox would be less concerned if he had not been similarly expected to recover quickly from an injury to the same knee last February, only to end up missing the first two months of the season. The team has not yet decided whether Rodriguez will be allowed to pitch for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic this coming spring.
Dec 21 2016Rodriguez did not allow a run on three hits and two walks while striking out six over five innings in a winter ball start in Venezuela on Tuesday.Rodriguez is playing winter league ball to prepare himself to pitch for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic this coming spring. Looking beyond the baseball classic, Rodriguez's chances of being one of the five starters in Boston's rotation improved significantly after the team traded Clay Buchholz to the Phillies. Chris Sale, David Price and Rick Porcello will make up the top three, but there are three guys fighting for the final two spots. In addition to Rodriguez, the Red Sox remain high on Drew Pomeranz and have a returning All Star in Steven Wright. One of these three is headed to the bullpen.
Oct 1 2016Rodriguez was a strikeout master again, punching out nine batters, but he also walked five in a no-decision against the Blue Jays on Saturday. He allowed three runs on three hits in his five frames.The south paw finishes the year with 22 strikeouts in his final 10.1 innings, but the five walks leaves a slightly bitter taste. Rodriguez also failed to win either of his final two starts. He ends the regular season 3-7 with a 4.71 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 100 strikeouts in 107.0 innings.
Sep 26 2016Rodriguez struck out 13 batters over 5.1 innings in Boston's 3-2 extra-inning win over the Rays on Sunday.There have been a few hiccups in the second half of the season, but Rodriguez no longer resembles the lost pitcher we saw prior to the All-Star break. In 13 starts since returning to Boston, he has a 3.10 ERA with 70 punchouts and 23 walks over 72.2 innings. As attention turns toward the postseason, it looks like Rodriguez has pitched himself into the rotational plans, probably as the third starter behind Rick Porcello and David Price. He's in line to get one more start in the regular season, Saturday at home against Toronto.
Sep 20 2016Rodriguez (3-7) beat the Orioles with 6.1 innings of two-run ball Tuesday. He struck out seven while allowing just four hits and a walk.Rodriguez continued his success at Camden Yards, taking a no-hitter into the fifth inning after throwing four no-hit innings in his last appearance there. He translated that fast start into his first win since Jul. 16, rebounding nicely from last Wednesday's 2.1-inning outing against the Yankees. The 23-year-old will be in search of his first two-game winning streak since September of last season Sunday in Tampa Bay.
Sep 16 2016Rodriguez last just 2.1 innings Thursday night, allowing eight hits and four runs in Boston's 7-5 win over the Yankees.Rodriguez didn't have the command Thursday, leaving balls up over the plate and the Yankees didn't miss. Fortunately, Rodriguez avoided taking the loss as the maligned Boston bullpen held New York in check and the Red Sox eventually battled back to walk off with the win after a five-run ninth inning. Rodriguez has had his issues this season, but he's been pretty good since the All-Star break, Entering Thursday's game, the left-hander had a 2.76 ERA in 10 games, a stretch that included two quality starts against the Yankees.
Sep 10 2016Rodriguez (2-7) gave up three runs (two earned) on four hits and two walks over six innings in Saturday's 3-2 loss to the Blue Jays. He struck out five.The lefty received very little run support, undermining what was his second straight quality start. Rodriguez fired 100 pitches overall, and only notched first-pitch strikes on nine of the 25 batters the faced. He did manage to record 15 swinging strikes, and has now given up only two earned runs in the 14 innings covering his last two starts. He'll try for his third win when he takes on the Yankees next Thursday.
Sep 4 2016Rodriguez (2-6) allowed no runs on one hit and two walks while striking out five over eight innings, but received no decision Sunday against the Athletics.Rodriguez lost a no-hit bid on an overturned call in the eighth inning, but still posted his best performance of the season, despite not factoring into the decision. Other than his first appearance of the season on May 31, his 4.83 ERA is the first time that number has been below 5.11 since that time.
Aug 29 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) allowed five runs on four hits and four walks while striking out one over 5.1 innings in Sundays' 10-4 loss to the Royals.Rodriguez, making his first start since suffering a left-hamstring strain, was far from perfect, but he had retired 10-of-11 batters entering a fateful sixth inning, when things disintegrated quickly. When he left, the bases were loaded and Boston was leading, 4-2. Enter the inconsistent bullpen. Matt Barnes allowed all three inherited runners to score, then five additional runs were charged to him. The bullpen is taking the heat Monday morning, but Rodriguez has to own some of this mess. He's prone to big innings and isn't always mentally tough when runners get on base. He's next scheduled to pitch Friday when the Red Sox are in Oakland.
Aug 29 2016Rodriguez allowed five runs on four hits and four walks across 5.1 innings in Sunday's start against the Royals. He struck out one as he fell to 2-6 on the season.Rodriguez struggled with his command Sunday, as just 54 percent of his pitches went for strikes and he tied a season-high in free passes versus a patient Royals lineup. He only allowed two runs through five innings, but a hit and two walks to begin the top of the sixth laid the framework for a disastrous frame in which Kansas City scored eight times to take a lead they would never relinquish. Rodriguez, who now owns a hefty 5.35 ERA, will have the opportunity to bounce back Saturday versus the Athletics.
Aug 25 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) did not experience any issues during a bullpen session Thursday and is ready to start Sunday if needed, Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez was scratched from his scheduled start Sunday due to his sore hamstring, but he has not encountered any setbacks this week, and Thursday's session was the final hurdle he needed to clear before being ready to rejoin Boston's rotation. The team has not confirmed its rotation for the weekend, but Rodriguez is likely to get the ball Sunday, which would push Clay Buchholz back into a bullpen role.
Aug 25 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) was confirmed as Sunday's starter against the Royals, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez was able to get through a bullpen session Thursday without any issues and is now set to rejoin the rotation after missing his last start with hamstring tightness. The lefty will look to pick up where he left off, as he had struck out 13 while allowing just one run over 11 innings in his previous two starts prior to the injury. The move will push Clay Buchholz back into a bullpen role.
Aug 24 2016Rodriguez (hamstring), who threw a 59-pitch simulated game Tuesday, will throw a bullpen session Thursday, Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez came out of Tuesday's sim game with no pain, buoying his confidence in the hamstring, but the Red Sox will wait until seeing Thursday's session before determining when the left-hander will return to the rotation. Based on the scheudule Rodriguez is on, his return could come Sunday against Kansas City at Fenway Park.
Aug 23 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) threw a simulated game Tuesday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez successfully threw 59 pitches during Tuesday's workout. While this is promising, Boston hasn't indicated when they'll bring him back to live action. Information regarding Rodriguez's return should be known after he's reevaluated Wednesday.
Aug 22 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) will throw a simulated game Tuesday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.The team seems confident that Rodriguez's health is steadily improving, but they want him to pitch a simulated game to build his confidence, rather than simply test the condition of his hamstring. Although he's 2-5 with a 5.11 ERA and 1.40 WHIP for the season, Rodriguez has been a solid starter since the All-Star break. In seven games since, Rodriguez has posted a 2.52 ERA and 1.14 WHIP.
Aug 21 2016Rodriguez, who was scratched Sunday with a hamstring injury, is optimistic he will make his next start, reports.Rodriguez worked in a session of long toss on the field before Sunday's game, and reported afterwards that he was feeling good. It sounds like his removal Sunday was just precautionary, and the team expects the hamstring tightness to subside prior to next week. If he stays on his regular schedule, that start would come Friday against the Royals.
Aug 21 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) will not make his start Sunday after telling Red Sox management he's fearful of further injuring his left hamstring if he pitches, Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe reports. "It's getting better, but four days was just too short to go into the game. I feel it's still a little bit tight," Rodriguez said. "I don't want to get in the game tomorrow and do something wrong or not focus on throwing strikes." Henry Owens will be called up from Triple-A Pawtucket to fill in.Pulling Rodriguez from the start is the right move. If there's anything we learned about the left-hander as he attempted to return from his knee injury earlier this season, it's that he needs to be fully confident in the injured part of his body. Otherwise, he doesn't make his pitches with conviction and less-than-desirable results ensue. Manager John Farrell said Rodriguez is not headed to the disabled list, but when he pitches next has not been determined.
Aug 20 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) made it through Friday's bullpen session without incident and will start Sunday's series finale in Detroit, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez left his previous start after four innings when he felt some tightness in his left hamstring, but he'll be able to return without missing a start.
Aug 17 2016Rodriguez (hamstring) is expected to pitch Saturday against Detroit, Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez had been putting on a show before leaving his last start after just four innings, as he struck out seven batters and didn't allow any hits. Said outing brought his ERA down to 2.08 for the month of August. Fortunately, it appears that his hamstring issue was relatively minor, giving the club hope that the 23-year-old southpaw will be able to take the mound Saturday.
Aug 17 2016Red Sox manager John Farrell said Rodriguez's left hamstring was feeling "a little bit more loose," following Tuesday's game in Baltimore, Steve Buckley of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez left Tuesday's game after four innings when he felt tightness in his left hamstring, but Farrell sounds optimistic. "We'll have a better read on this (today)... I think we got it early enough, to where it doesn't seem to be a significant restriction at this point. But we'll know more as we get through the coming days." The Red Sox will hold off for a few days before making a decision about Rodriguez making his next scheduled start Sunday in Detroit.
Aug 16 2016Rodriguez left Tuesday's game in the fifth inning with an apparent injury, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports.It wasn't obvious what was ailing Rodriguez but he left the field with a trainer two pitches into the fifth, having not allowed a hit nor a run through the first four frames. Matt Barnes was called upon to pitch in relief.
Aug 16 2016Rodriguez left Tuesday's game with left hamstring tightness, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports.The injury cut short what was shaping up to be a brilliant performance -- Rodriguez hadn't allowed a hit when he exited in the fifth inning. His status for his next scheduled start is uncertain and may not be known until later in the week, when the Red Sox are able to gauge his progress or lack thereof. Matt Barnes replaced Rodriguez on the mound.
Aug 11 2016Rodriguez (2-5) hurled seven innings of one-run ball while punching out six and walking one against the Yankees on Thursday.After frustrating fantasy owners with an 8.59 ERA in the first half, the lefty Rodriguez has transformed himself into a pitcher most thought he'd be. He entered Thursday's start with a 3.18 ERA over his last 28.1 innings, and his newfound brilliance has made him a must-own fantasy starter.
Aug 10 2016Rodriguez's next start has been pushed up to Thursday against the Yankees, the Providence Journal's Brian MacPherson reports.He was originally slated to take the ball Friday against the Diamondbacks but was moved up after Steven Wright was scratched from Thursday's start due to a jammed shoulder. Rodriguez has lowered his ERA from 8.59 to 5.93 over his last five outings, but he has really struggled to go deep into games, failing to log more than 5.1 innings in three of his last four starts.
Aug 7 2016Rodriguez allowed three runs on eight hits and one walk while striking out five over 4.1 innings in Saturday's loss to the Dodgers. The left-hander needed 88 pitches to get 13 outs and had multiple baserunners in three of his innings.Rodriguez's biggest faux-pas was leaving a pitch up in the zone to A.J. Ellis with two runners on and the pitcher due up next. Ellis delivered a single to plate the Dodgers first run. He just didn't have the command he had in his previous start against Seattle. The left-hander is next scheduled to pitch Friday (Aug. 12) at home against the Diamondbacks.
Aug 1 2016Rodriguez didn't factor into the decision Monday in Seattle despite limiting the Mariners to just one run on three hits and two walks while striking six in 6.1 inningsRodriguez pitched into the seventh without giving up a run, at which point he was actually bailed out by reliever Robby Ross Jr. after leaving with one out and runners on second and third. That proved to be the key moment in the game, as an Aaron Hill homer tied it in the very next inning before Mookie Betts' blast put Boston ahead for good in the ninth. Still, the team's inability to get its normally potent offense going until late cost the southpaw a chance at a victory. Rodriguez is scheduled to take the mound in an even more pitcher-friendly environment next time out, as the Red Sox will be at Dodger Stadium on Saturday.
Jul 28 2016Rodriguez has been using his slider more often and getting good results with the pitch, Mark C. Volain of MassLive.com reports. "It's become a much more defined pitch so it's a much more usable pitch. He's been able to mix it in with the two other pitches that he has," manager John Farrell said. "I can't say there's a prescribed number to go out there and throw, but it's a good pitch and he's using it."Since his return from the minors, Rodriguez has thrown his slider a bit more than 30 percent of the time, according to BrooksBaseball.net. Rodriguez threw the slider 32 times during Wednesday's loss, matching the number he threw in his previous start, but saw an uptick in strikes with the pitch, with 21 called strikes Wednesday compared to 19 last Friday. There are still issues he needs to overcome -- we'd like to see Rodriguez get deeper into games with more consistency -- but there are hopeful signs of improvement.
Jul 27 2016Rodriguez took a no-decision in a loss to the Tigers on Wednesday. He allowed three runs on nine hits, struck out six and walked three in the loss.When he left the game, Boston trailed by two, but the Red Sox came back to tie it to get Rodriguez off the hook. He is 2-4 with an ugly 6.51 ERA and 1.62 WHIP, but Rodriguez has been pitching a lot better since returning from Triple-A on July 16. The 23-year-old has allowed six runs in his last 17.2 innings, giving him a 3.06 ERA over the last three starts. He also has 14 strikeouts in his last 10.2 frames. But home runs are still a problem. He's allowed a homer in nine straight starts and has a 2.38 HR/9 rate, the second-highest among pitchers with at least 40 innings this season. His next start will be Monday against Seattle.
Jul 22 2016Rodriguez (2-4) allowed two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out eight over 5.1 innings to take the loss Friday against the Twins.Rodriguez allowed single runs in the second and sixth innings, but the offense was only able to put a single run on the board to keep him from having a shot at a win. Since being brought back up to the majors on July 16, he's allowed just three runs in 12 innings over two starts to lower his ERA to 6.70. He'll make his next start Wednesday against the Tigers.
Jul 17 2016Rodriguez (2-3) gave up an earned run on four hits and two walks over seven innings in Saturday's 5-2 victory over the Yankees. He also recorded a strikeout.The 23-year-old looked like a completely different pitcher as compared to the last start before his demotion, an appearance against the Rays on June 27 where he'd been blasted for 11 hits and nine earned runs in less than three frames. Rodriguez turned in what was easily his best outing of the season, allowing the fewest earned runs of any 2016 start while also completing seven innings for the first time during the campaign. The young southpaw's only hiccup was the third-inning solo homer he allowed to Brett Gardner, but he otherwise stymied a veteran Yankees lineup. Rodriguez will try to keep the positive momentum when he faces off with the Twins next Friday.
Jul 15 2016The Red Sox recalled Rodriguez from Triple-A Pawtucket on Friday.Rodriguez spent the last couple weeks in the minors after posting a 10.03 ERA over five June starts, but he will re-join Boston's rotation coming out of the All-Star break. He will first take the ball Saturday against the Yankees -- a team he has not faced this season, but had success against in 2015, posting a 3-1 record and 2.22 ERA over four starts.
Jul 14 2016Updating a previous report, Rodriguez is scheduled to pitch for Boston on Saturday, according to MLB.com.An earlier report had the Red Sox calling up Rodriguez to start Friday's game against the Yankees, but that start is going to Steven Wright. The Red Sox are confident the left-hander's problem with pitch-tipping has been rectified and their anxious for him to regain the form he had during his rookie season in 2015.
Jul 10 2016Rodriguez will start the first game after the All-Star Break, Scott Lauber of ESPN.com reports.After struggling mightily with the Red Sox this season, going 1-3 with a 8.59 ERA over six starts, Rodriguez was sent down to Triple-A to regain his form. It appears he's found something in the minors as he's limited opponents to five hits and three walks over 10 innings over his two starts for Triple-A Pawtucket. The 23-year-old southpaw will look to carry over that success as he faces the Yankees on July 15 to start the season's second half.
Jul 10 2016Rodriguez made the necessary adjustments to his delivery so that he is no longer tipping his pitches, Meredith Perri of Mass Live reports. "I think by all reports and watching video of him, it looks like he's gained some comfort with the hand position that has been widely talked about," manager John Farrell said. "So required and needed adjustments have been made."The organization's main goals for Rodriguez when he was optioned two weeks ago was to eliminate the pitch-tipping and gain more confidence in his slider. He showed progress in both areas during his two-start stint with Triple-A Pawtucket. At the time of the demotion, the Red Sox envisioned multiple starts for the left-hander, but they are desperate for healthy starters so he gets back to MLB more quickly.
Jul 9 2016Rodriguez's start for Triple-A Pawtucket on Friday was shortened due to rain. He allowed two runs on three hits and a walk while striking out three in three innings.This was Rodriguez's second start for the PawSox since Boston optioned him on June 27. As the Red Sox wrestle to find some stability out of the final two spots in the rotation and consider options outside the organization, getting Rodriguez back to his 2015 form is clearly a priority. The club will give him a few more starts in Triple-A before they consider bringing him back up.
Jun 29 2016Rodriguez, who was demoted to Triple-A Pawtucket earlier this week, will work to eliminate habits that tip his pitches to opposing hitters, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports. "It's no secret -- hitters know what's coming," Red Sox pitching coach Carl Willis said. "He has worked on it extensively during bullpen sessions, dry work periods. He makes progress. He shows the ability to make those adjustments. However, when the game begins and the game situations start and his focus gears more toward the attack of the hitter, the old habits resurface."This isn't the first time Rodriguez has dealt with the issue of broadcasting to hitters the pitch he's about to throw, but he hasn't been able to shake the problem this season. Aside from tipping his pitches, he's having trouble with his slider and missing location out over the middle of plate, resulting in nine homers allowed over 29.1 innings. This will not be a one-week fix. Rodriguez will make multiple starts for the PawSox while Boston makes roster adjustments to add a replacement for him.
Jun 28 2016Rodriguez is expected to make several starts in Triple-A, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.After Monday night's 2.2 inning, 9-run implosion and subsequent demotion to Triple-A, manager John Farrell stated that he intends for Rodriguez to make several starts in the minors and that "adjustments are necessary". Rodriguez had struggled mightily before Monday's debacle as well, making only one quality start in five tries and giving up 19 earned runs (6.41 ERA) in the process. He'll head to Triple-A Pawtucket now to try to regain his form.
Jun 27 2016Rodriguez (1-3) had a night to forget on Monday, allowing nine runs in 2.2 innings in a loss to the Rays. He gave up 11 hits, walked one, and struck out two.Rodriguez has not experienced very much success this season, finishing six innings just twice in six starts. The lefty now has an unsightly 8.59 ERA this year on the heels of what was a very promising rookie season. Rodriguez will look to right the ship on Sunday against the Angels.
Jun 27 2016Rodriguez was optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket on Monday, Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports.The move comes as little surprise after Rodriguez surrendered nine earned runs over 2.2 innings in a loss to the Rays on Monday. The left-hander has been wildly inconsistent through six starts this season, compiling a 1-3 record and an 8.59 ERA. He'll hope to fix his mechanics in the minors and return to his 2015 form. A corresponding move has not yet been announced.
Jun 24 2016Rodriguez threw just four sliders out of his 102 pitches thrown in Wednesday's game against the White Sox, Alex Speier of the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez relied heavily on his fastball (77 pitches) and changeup (21) Wednesday, a mix that came back to haunt him later in the game when Todd Frazier teed off on a fastball for a game-tying homer in the sixth inning. In many ways, the game was a breakthrough for the left-hander, who pitched without a knee brace for the first time and consistently hit 95-96 mph on his fastball after scrapping a month-long experiment with a new windup, but until he can get comfortable with a breaking ball, batters will ignore the few that he does throw and wait on his heater. "I need to work in the breaking ball more," said Rodriguez. "If I can throw it for strikes, strike one, show them I've got something [that breaks], it changes the eye levels."
Jun 23 2016Rodriguez went back to his old delivery for Wednesday night's game against the White Sox and had his most powerful fastball of the season, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez had been using a modified delivery after rehabbing a knee injury suffered during spring training, but was experiencing diminished velocity on his fastball. Going back to his old delivery Wednesday, the left-hander's heater was sitting consistently around 95-96 mph. While he gave up two more homers Wednesday -- that's seven homers allowed in 26.2 innings -- Rodriguez struck out a season-high seven.
Jun 22 2016Rodriguez allowed four runs (three earned) on four hits and a pair of walks while striking out seven over six innings Wednesday against the White Sox.He left with the lead, but ended up with no decision thanks to Koji Uehara getting blown up in the eighth. This was a much-needed improvement after three consecutive ugly starts by Quintana, but it was still well short of spectacular. The 23-year-old lefty has tons of upside, though, and it seems the Red Sox are inclined to see what he can do over an extended period of time in the rotation. He'll start again Monday against the Rays.
Jun 18 2016Rodriguez met with manager John Farrell and pitching coach Carl Willis to discuss his recent string of poor outings, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports. "There was a lot covered in the meeting," Farrell said.Aside from the pitch-tipping that continues to plague the young left-hander, an inability to keep pitches over the plate but out of the middle has wreaked havoc in his last three outings. Rodriguez has walked nine and given up six homers in his last 14.2 innings. He had incorporated a tweak in his delivery this spring -- taking a step back toward third base with his lead leg before getting into his windup -- trying to compensate for the whatever limitations he felt while recovering from a knee injury. The session with coaches discussed having him begin his delivery directly toward home plate, eliminating the step back toward third base. "There are some things because of the change in the delivery that's not put him in a position to consistently execute pitches," Farrell said. "That's what we're addressing."
Jun 18 2016Rodriguez will start Wednesday's game against the White Sox, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez was initially slated to start Tuesday, but the Sox will push him back a day to allow for ample rest following a scheduled bullpen session Monday. Clay Buchholz, the original Wednesday starter, will now start Tuesday's game.
Jun 17 2016The Red Sox believe Rodriguez is still tipping his pitches, the Boston Herald's Mike Silverman reports.While this might sound troubling, it at least suggests that with a minor tweak to his delivery and release, Rodriguez's performance could take a big step forward. He has been hit hard so far since coming off the disabled list, but just based on pure stuff, there's No. 3 starter upside here if he can make the necessary adjustments. The Red Sox are sticking with him in the rotation, but if he can't fix the pitch-tipping problem soon, he could be sent back down to Triple-A to try to fix the problem in games that don't count against the big league club.
Jun 16 2016Manager John Farrell announced Thursday that Rodriguez will remain in the rotation, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports.Rodriguez was hit hard in his start Thursday, allowing five earned runs on eight hits through just 4.1 innings en route to earning his second loss of the season. However, Farrell will allow Rodriguez to work through his struggles and keep him in the rotation for now. He will have a chance to bounce back from Thursday's outing when he takes the mound to face the White Sox on Tuesday.
Jun 15 2016Rodriguez threw a bullpen session in which he and pitching coach Carl Willis discussed the pitcher's focus on every pitch, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports. "If he focuses on repeating his delivery, he's going to have better command and he's going to throw the baseball where he wants to and he should be more efficient," Willis said.Rodriguez's lack of focus has undermined the tempo of his delivery, leading to inconsistent command and missed location. In the past two starts, Rodriguez has walked seven and permitted five homers in 10.1 innings. He heads into a start Thursday with a 6.06 ERA.
Jun 12 2016Rodriguez, who allowed 10 baserunners in 4.2 innings Saturday against the Twins, showed some improvement despite his lack of command, the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez struggled to command his fastball once again and allowed the worst offensive team in baseball to chase him before qualifying for a win. Through three starts, the left-hander has allowed 11 runs in 16.1 innings while walking as many as he's struck out. The results aren't good, but there are signs of improvement as he works his way back from a knee injury. The fastball, once a concern when it was sitting at 92 mph, touched 97 on Saturday and sat at 94. And, after relying heavily on the fastball in his previous start, he was more confident in his secondary offerings. The stuff is improving even if the results weren't. The Red Sox feel the command is more fixable than if his stuff hadn't returned since his injury.
Jun 11 2016Rodriguez did not factor in the decision against the Twins on Saturday, and surrendered six hits, four earned runs and four walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out four.The 23-year-old southpaw has taken a step back after notching a victory in his first appearance of the season on May 31, as he's surrendered nine earned runs over the 10 innings encompassing his subsequent pair of starts. Saturday, Rodriguez labored through his four-plus innings, throwing 93 pitches over that span. He did show marked improvement in terms of keeping the ball in the yard, surrendering only a three-run homer to Kurt Suzuki after giving up four gopher balls to the Blue Jays in his previous start. Rodriguez turned in a solid rookie season, so his recent struggles may simply be a case of a younger player getting reacclimated. He'll look for a better showing next Thursday versus the Orioles.
Jun 5 2016Rodriguez (1-1) gave up only four hits in 5.2 innings Sunday, but all four left the yard in a 5-4 loss to the Blue Jays. He walked three without striking out a batter.Toronto's sluggers made him pay for almost every mistake, but Rodriguez also had trouble avoiding contact, managing only four swinging strikes on 99 pitches. He shouldn't have quite as much difficulty keeping the ball in the park during his next start Saturday in Minnesota.
May 31 2016Rodrgiuez (1-0) was successful in his return to the Red Sox rotation, allowing just two runs on six hits with no walks and three strikeouts over six innings to beat the Orioles on Tuesday.Rodriguez's new knee brace seems to have made a positive impact on his control, as the southpaw has a 10:0 K:BB in 13 innings between his last rehab start in Triple-A and his first major league appearance of 2016. The 23-year-old represents a clear upgrade over the struggling Clay Buchholz if he keeps pitching like this, though things don't project to get much easier in his next start Sunday against the dangerous Blue Jays offense.
May 30 2016Rodriguez (knee) was activated from the 15-day DL Monday, Evan Drellich of the Houston Chronicle reports.Rodriguez was announced as Tuesday's starter earlier in the week, and the demotion of Heath Hembree to Triple-A to free up a roster spot made it official. The left-handed Rodriguez will draw a tough matchup in his first game back, facing the Orioles in the hitter-friendly Camden Yards.
May 28 2016Rodriguez (knee) will start for Boston on Tuesday against Baltimore, the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez will replace Clay Buchholz in Boston's rotation, after Buchholz pitched himself out of a starting job. The left-handed Rodriguez has made five rehab starts at Triple-A Pawtucket, his most recent one last Tuesday was the best of the bunch. After having some issues with a knee brace, Rodriguez was given a new brace, which made him feel more comfortable and, more importantly, confident when he allowed one run on four hits while striking out seven and walking none in seven innings.
May 25 2016Rodriguez (knee) is expected to start for Triple-A Pawtucket on Sunday, so it is unlikely that the Red Sox think he is ready to return yet, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez has a 3.54 ERA and 1.14 WHIP in five starts at Triple-A this season and appears to be nearing the end of his rehab assignments. If he performs well on Sunday there's a chance he could return to the Red Sox starting rotation sometime next week.
May 24 2016Rodriguez (knee) allowed four hits and a walk while striking out six in seven scoreless innings for Triple-A Pawtucket on Tuesday. He threw 102 pitches, 69 for strikes.Rodriguez's fastball velocity topped out at 92 mph, according to Alex Speier of the Boston Globe, still below the level it was last season, but this was the most confident Rodriguez has looked in his five rehab starts. The Red Sox have enough time left on his rehab clock for one more start if they want to delay a decision, but he sure looks ready right now.
May 22 2016Rodriguez (knee) was fitted for a new knee brace, which he tested out in a bullpen session Friday and a pitching-fielding practice workout Saturday, the Boston Globe reports.Boston manager John Farrell said Rodriguez fared well in both sessions and that the brace gave the young left-hander some confidence. He'll next throw a bullpen session Monday and the club hopes to have him make a rehab start Tuesday.
May 22 2016Rodriguez (knee) will make a rehab start Tuesday for Triple-A Pawtucket, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez tossed another bullpen session at Fenway Park on Sunday, marking yet another successful workout for the southpaw. If Tuesday's start confirms his health, Rodriguez will soon return to consideration for the fifth starter's job in Boston.
May 21 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw a bullpen session Friday and will go through pitcher-fielding practice Saturday, the Boston Globe reports.If all goes well Saturday, manager John Farrell said Rodriguez will make his next start for Triple-A Pawtucket. The left-hander had his rehab clock halted with 11 days remaining, and because he was not inactive for seven days, the Red Sox can't re-start the clock back to 30 days. That means the lefty is in line to return to Boston sometime around the end of May.
May 17 2016Rodriguez (knee) will not make his next scheduled rehab start Thursday, Rob Bradford of WEEI reports.Rodriguez's lingering knee issues have flared up on him this week and he will not be able to take the hill for his next scheduled outing. He put together a solid performance in his most recent outing on Saturday, allowing two earned runs over 5.2 innings of work, but his velocity was still reportedly sitting in the low 90s. Manager John Farrell told reporters Tuesday that Rodriguez is still dealing with lingering soreness in his knee, so it's unclear how long he'll be shut down for until he can make another rehab appearance.
May 17 2016Rodriguez (knee) is expected to rest a few days and then throw a bullpen session Friday, Mass Live reports.Rodriguez acknowledged that he's still not feeling fully confident in the stability of the knee, which may have contributed to the reported loss of fastball velocity. Manager John Farrell said the Red Sox "fully expect" Rodriguez will pitch in the majors, but it's unknown how long it will take to get past the soreness or establish stability in the knee. As for his rehab clock, Rodriguez has 11 days left on that. If he's forced to sit out and rest for seven days or longer, they can restart the 30-day rehab clock. Rodriguez's condition allows Farrell to kick the decision about Clay Buchholz's spot in the rotation down the road a bit.
May 15 2016Rodriguez threw 100 pitches in his fourth rehabilitation start Saturday for Triple-A Pawtucket, Sox Prospects reports. He allowed three runs (two earned) on seven hits while striking out three in 5.2 innings.Rodriguez's overall command was good -- 71 of his 100 pitches were strikes -- and reaching 100 pitches is a milestone. However, the left-hander's fastball velocity remained off, according to Ian Cundall of Sox Prospects, sitting in the 90-92 mph range. Other than the velocity, Rodriguez has done all he needs to be activated. We'll wait on word from manager John Farrell in the coming days. One thing to keep in mind is that Boston has a couple of off days in the next week and can get by with four starters. It's quite possible Farrell can kick a decision down the road a bit and give Rodriguez another rehab start.
May 15 2016Rodriguez (knee) will make another rehab start for Triple-A Pawtucket on Thursday, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.The Red Sox are no longer harboring any concerns about Rodriguez's health after he covered 100 pitches in Saturday's start, but the team wants to see better performances from him before bringing him back in the big-league rotation. Over four starts with Pawtucket, Rodriguez has supplied a 4.29 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 10:4 K:BB ratio across 21 innings.
May 14 2016Rodriguez (knee) had his scheduled rehabilitation start Friday for Triple-A Pawutcket rained out. He'll pitch in one of Saturday's doubleheader games.Minor league doubleheaders are shortened to seven innings on both ends, but the Red Sox feel that's enough time to get Rodriguez up to 100 pitches. Moreso than the pitch count, the Red Sox will be looking to see some additional velocity out of the left-hander's fastball.
May 10 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw a bullpen session Tuesday, Evan Drellich of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez has already embarked on a rehab stint and is scheduled to start Friday with Triple-A Pawtucket, but it appears as though a return is imminent shortly after that. Despite making 21 starts with Boston last season, it remains to be seen though if he'll head to the majors or stay at the Triple-A level when healthy.
May 9 2016Rodriguez (knee) will start Friday for Triple-A Pawtucket, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.According to manager John Farrell, Rodriguez still needs to work on his arm strength, despite consistently throwing 91 mph during Sunday's start with Pawtucket. Farrell didn't guarantee that Rodriguez would reunite with the Red Sox even after Friday's start, so it remains unclear when Rodriguez will rejoin the Red Sox.
May 8 2016Manager John Farrell said Sunday that Rodriguez's (knee) next start may occur in the majors, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.Farrell is expected to convene with the right-hander Monday, or one day removed from his third rehab start with Triple-A Pawtucket. On Sunday, Rodriguez gave up three runs on six hits and one walk to go with two strikeouts in 5.2 innings, which pushed his ERA to 4.70 and K:BB to 7:4 in 15.1 innings at the Red Sox's top affiliate. Although his displays haven't exactly been optimal, he was able to bump his pitch count to 93 this time around.
May 5 2016Rodriguez (knee) will make one final rehabilitation start Sunday for Triple-A Pawtucket, the Providence Journal reports. The left-hander threw 84 pitches in a rehab start Tuesday and is slated for 100 pitches Sunday.The planned schedule sets up Rodriguez to rejoin Boston's starting rotation at some point late next week, almost a year to the day he made his big-league debut in 2015. He presumably will replace Henry Owens, who will start Thursday and get one additional start before Rodriguez is ready to return.
May 4 2016Rodriguez (knee) allowed three runs on five hits while striking out three in six innings of a rehabilitation start for Triple-A Pawtucket.Rodriguez got beat up in the first inning, when he allowed all three runs, but went on to retire 16 of the final 18 batters faced. The Red Sox will consider the next step for Rodriguez, but another rehab start is a strong possibility. That next start would be Sunday. On that schedule, Rodriguez could be back in Boston on May 13.
Apr 29 2016Rodriguez (knee) made his first rehabilitation start for Triple-A Pawtucket on Thursday, giving up three runs (two earned) on six hits and three walks while striking out two in 3.2 innings.Rodriguez had an 80-pitch limit, but lasted only 75 pitches, 45 of which were strikes. He ceded runs in each of the first two innings and it was his error that led to the one unearned run. Other than seeing him on the mound facing live opponents, there wasn't much optimism to take away from the night. The Red Sox will give him two rehab starts before they evaluate where he's at. A third start is a possibility, and perhaps even likely after Thursday's outing. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday of next week.
Apr 25 2016Rodriguez (knee) may make his next rehab start Thursday at Triple-A Pawtucket, Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reports.Weather considerations are the variable in play, as the Red Sox are still planning on having Rodriguez make two more rehab starts before he's cleared to rejoin the Boston rotation.
Apr 24 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw five innings in an extended spring training game Saturday, the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez used all of his pitches and his fastball velocity reached the low 90s, which was good enough to plan his rehabilitation assignment. He's tentatively scheduled to join Double-A Portland and pitch Friday. Manager John Farrell said Rodriguez will need a "minimum of two and possibly three" starts. If it takes two starts, he'll be back around May 3; if three starts are needed, he'll be back around May 9.
Apr 24 2016Rodriguez (knee) will make his initial rehab start Thursday at High-A Salem, Scott Lauber of ESPN.com reports.While he was rumored to be getting the nod at Double-A Portland on Friday, Rodriguez will instead take the mound Thursday, as the Red Sox prefer that he remain on a five-day schedule. If all goes as planned, he'll likely move up to Triple-A Pawtucket, after which he could be activated from the DL.
Apr 23 2016Rodriguez (knee), who is scheduled to throw 75 pitches in an extended spring training game Saturday, will need at least two starts in the minor leagues before being activated, the Boston Globe reports.On that schedule, Rodriguez will return to the majors around May 3. Boston's starting rotation has been unreliable early on -- 5.21 ERA, 26th in MLB -- so getting the young lefty back as soon as possible is desirable.
Apr 23 2016Rodriguez (knee) is set to begin his rehab assignment this week at Double-A Portland, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.The young lefty started the year on the disabled list after suffering a patella injury in spring training, but he's been ramping up his activity in sim games and is set to stretch out to 75 pitches in an extended spring training game Saturday. Provided that Saturday's outing goes off without incident, Britton is reporting that Rodriguez could begin his rehab assignment Thursday at Double-A. He will need a minimum of two rehab outings before being activated from the disabled list, which puts him on track for a mid-May return.
Apr 19 2016Rodriguez (knee) will make one more appearance in an extended spring training game Saturday before beginning a rehab assignment, Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe reports.There was a chance Rodriguez would begin a rehab assignment Saturday, but the Red Sox want him to throw once more at their spring training complex before sending him out to an affiliate. He is scheduled to throw around 75 pitches Saturday, and as long as all goes well, he should begin his rehab stint at some point in the middle of next week.
Apr 18 2016Rodriguez (knee) will begin a rehab assignment with one of the Red Sox's affiliates as early as Saturday, the Boston Globe reports.On Monday, Rodriguez completed a 55-pitch simulated game at the Red Sox's facility in Fort Myers, Fla., which has seemingly paved the way for the next step in the process. Because a return to the big league rotation is likely the desired result, he could log a few starts with an increasing pitch count with that aim in mind.
Apr 17 2016Rodriguez (knee) is scheduled to throw a simulated game Monday, the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez is expected to up his pitch count from the 50 he threw during a simulated game last Wednesday. If all goes well, we expect him to go out on a minor league rehabilitation assignment.
Apr 14 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw 50 pitches in three innings of a simulated game Wednesday, the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez made it through the workout and will commence a five-day routine beginning with an appearance in extended spring training followed by a minor-league rehabilitation assignment. As we see Boston's starting staff getting knocked around early on, Rodriguez's return takes on a bit of importance.
Apr 12 2016Rodriguez (knee) will throw a three-inning simulated game Wednesday, the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez, who tossed 36 pitches during a two-inning sim game Sunday, will commence a five-day routine beginning Wednesday. If all goes well for the left-hander Wednesday, he could begin a rehabilitation assignment next Monday (Apr. 18).
Apr 11 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw 36 pitches in a two-inning simulated game Sunday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez came out of Sunday's outing unscathed, and his next step will be another simulated game Wednesday. As long as everything goes as planned that day, he could head out on a rehab assignment afterward.
Apr 5 2016Rodriguez (knee) is set to throw a simulated game Sunday at the Boston's spring training facility, Scott Lauber of ESPN.com reports.Despite starting the season on the disabled list due to a patella injury, Rodriguez is making progress in his recovery and has ramped up his activity considerably over the last few days. He threw a live batting practice session Monday and the Red Sox plan to have him back on the mound for a sim game Sunday. The next logical step will be for Rodriguez to begin a rehab assignment, but he may need another simulated game or two before he starts playing in games.
Apr 4 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw a live batting practice Monday, Scott Lauber of ESPN.com reports.Rodriguez will throw another session on Wednesday and could pitch in a minor league rehab start early next week. The 22-year-old had a 3.85 ERA over 21 starts for the Red Sox in 2015 and is expected to be a key part of their rotation once he returns from injury.
Apr 3 2016Rodriguez (knee) was placed on the 15-day DL on Sunday, Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez has progressed to live bullpen sessions in his recovery from a knee injury suffered early in spring training, but after having missed all of Grapefruit League play, he'll be unavailable for the Red Sox to begin the season. The 22-year-old will likely need to make several rehab starts in the minors to make up for the lack of spring training innings before rejoining the Red Sox, so he may not be back until early or mid-May.
Apr 2 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw a live bullpen session Saturday but he is still not ready for game action, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez is already set to start the season on the disabled list, but Saturday's bullpen session is a step in the right direction. According to Britton, Rodriguez needs to log at least two more bullpens before the Red Sox mull over their next move, which would likely be a rehab assignment. Depending on how many innings the Red Sox want Rodriguez to throw before coming off the disabled list, Rodriguez could be in for a rehab assignment that lasts several outings.
Mar 30 2016Rodriguez (knee) may not return to the Red Sox until sometime in May, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez is dealing with a patella injury and is still in the early stages of increasing his activity level. The lefty is expected to require 2-to-3 bullpen sessions before returning to game action, which may not come until early in May.
Mar 28 2016Rodriguez (knee) will begin the season on the disabled list.Rodriguez dealt with a knee injury during training camp and has yet to appear in a game, so he will need more time to get ready for regular season action. Rodriguez is one of the Red Sox's top youngsters, so the team will take its time with the rest of his recovery. He should garner consideration for a rotation spot with the big club once he is healthy and has built up his stamina.
Mar 27 2016Rodriguez (knee) is expected to face hitters as soon as Saturday, freelance reporter Maureen Mullen reports.Rodriguez tossed a 40-pitch bullpen session Saturday, and will throw two more such sessions later this week before testing himself in batting practice. The left-handed appears on track to open the season on the 15-day DL, but he could make his season debut by the end of April.
Mar 25 2016Rodriguez (knee) had a successful bullpen session Wednesday, the Boston Herald reports.Rodriguez is scheduled to throw another bullpen session Saturday, one in which he may face live batters. The lefty has checked off some rehab boxes, but he still needs to face hitters, then pitch in a game situation, and build up his pitch count. We're targeting late April for his return. In the meantime, it's looking like Steven Wright will fill in for him in Boston's rotation.
Mar 21 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw a 30-pitch bullpen session Monday, Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports.No issues were reported during of after Rodriguez's outing, so it can presumed that he came out of the session without setback. He is progressing in the right direction and will throw another bullpen session Wednesday, but it remains to be seen when he will get into a game next.
Mar 17 2016Red Sox manager John Farrell confirmed Thursday that Rodriguez (knee) will not be ready for the start of the season, freelance reporter Maureen Mullen reports.Farrell confirmed what was already known, as Rodriguez dislocated his kneecap Feb. 27 and only resumed throwing off a mound Wednesday. A previous report suggested that the lefty won't be ready to make his first start until April 26.
Mar 17 2016Rodriguez (knee) threw off a mound Wednesday for the first time since temporarily dislocating his kneecap Feb. 27, the Boston Herald reports.The left-hander threw about 20 pitches as pitching coach Carl Willis and manager John Farrell looked on as extremely interested parties. Rodriguez threw from a standard delivery, but did not throw with 100 percent effort. The exercise was more about feeling his landing and the weight transfer one makes during a delivery. "We saw what we wanted to see," Willis said. "More importantly, he felt that he could be normal. That's the case. You have to have that confidence not only in as a pitcher and your arm, but for your entire body to do what you do." While nothing is official yet, Rodriguez will most certainly open the season on the disabled list. In that likely event, the Red Sox will make do with Steven Wright, Henry Owens or Roenis Elias.
Mar 15 2016Rodriguez is expected to throw approximately 20 pitches off a mound for the first time since his knee surgery, Alex Speir of The Boston Globe reports.This will likely give the Red Sox a better idea of when Rodriguez can return to pitching at full strength. Manager John Farrell has stated that Rodriguez will not skip any steps in his recovery, making it a real possibility that the 22-year-old could miss his first start of the season.
Mar 15 2016Rodriguez (knee) won't be ready to start a regular season game until April 26, the Providence Journal's Brian MacPherson reports.He will throw 20 pitches off a mound Wednesday -- the first time he will have done so since dislocating his right kneecap in a fielding drill on Feb. 27. The team hasn't officially closed the door on Rodriguez being ready for the start of the season, but manager John Farrell has also said they won't skip steps, meaning the young lefty is already out of time to get ready in time for his first turn in the rotation. Each of the other starting pitchers in camp with the Red Sox are scheduled to make at least six starts/multi-inning appearances before Opening Day, so Rodriguez is well behind schedule. He will throw off a bullpen mound Wednesday and hoepfully progress to getting in his first game on March 22. Roenis Elias, Henry Owens and Steven Wright are the candidates to make three starts in the Red Sox's rotation while Rodriguez gets up to speed. While Rodriguez appears to be headed for the DL to start the season, if he can return in mid-to-late April he will still have plenty of time to generate value for his owners.
Mar 14 2016Manager John Farrell is hopeful that Rodriguez (knee) will throw a bullpen session this week, Red Sox reporter Maureen Mullen reports.It's looking like Rodriguez will not be ready to pitch by Opening Day, but the sooner he gets back on a mound, the sooner he will be ready to make his first official regular season appearance.
Mar 13 2016Rodriguez (knee) is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez has been in a holding pattern in his rehab over the last week and is quickly losing time needed to be ready for Opening Day. A bullpen session soon would be encouraging, but it's beginning to look like Henry Owens or Steven Wright will have to cover Rodriguez's turn in the rotation for a few weeks. The Red Sox don't need a fifth starter until April 10, so they do have a little wiggle room past Opening Day.
Mar 12 2016Rodriguez (knee) remains without a timetable to throw from a mound, NESN's Maureen Mullen reports.No news is bad news in Rodriguez's case, as he is running out of time to get ready for his first turn in the Red Sox's rotation at the outset of the regular season. Assuming Joe Kelly makes the rotation out of camp, Henry Owens, Steven Wright and Roenis Elias would be competing to keep Rodriguez's rotation spot warm if he has to start the year on the DL.
Mar 10 2016Rodriguez (knee) is in a holding pattern and will need multiple bullpen sessions before he appears in a game, the Providence Journal's Tim Britton reports.The talented young lefty is running out of time to get enough work in this spring to be ready for the regular season. Boston is understandably taking it slow with Rodriguez, and although the swelling in his knee has "minimized," there is not an exact timetable for him throw a bullpen session. If he is forced to miss a start or two in the regular season, Henry Owens and Brian Johnson would be options to start the year in the rotation.
Mar 9 2016The swelling in Rodriguez's dislocated kneecap has "minimized" but he is not yet cleared to throw off a mound, ESPN's Scott Lauber reports.It sounds like he is progressing well, but prospective owners will want to continue to follow the situation to make sure he can return to the mound in time to get enough work in to be ready for the start of the season. A healthy Rodriguez makes for a cheap breakout candidate, as he has the stuff and physical characteristics to make it as a No. 3 starter.
Mar 7 2016Manager John Farrell said that it'll be tough for Rodriguez (knee) to start the season on time if he doesn't pitch in a game in the next 10 days, Scott Lauber of ESPN reports.Rodriguez progressed to throwing off flat ground Saturday, but he hasn't thrown off a mound yet. The left-hander appears to be in line for a rotation spot after pitching well in 21 starts with the Red Sox last season, but Opening Day could be in jeopardy for him if this knee issue continues to linger. He's already a bit behind the rest of the pitchers, and with plenty of other options in the Red Sox system, it is important for the southpaw to get back to action as soon as possible.
Mar 7 2016Rodriguez (knee) experienced some minor cramping in his calf during his throwing session Monday, ESPN Boston reports.Rodriguez was able to finish his session, so this may not be a big deal. What is a big deal, however, is that there's still swelling in the knee and Rodriguez has not yet progressed to throwing off a mound. Manager John Farrell estimates the left-hander has a 10-day window to progress to the point of making his first spring start if he's going to be ready for Opening Day.
Mar 5 2016Rodriguez (knee) continues to play catch off flat ground but he remains without a firm timetable for a return, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports. "He continues to get better each day, and he had a very good day today so we're excited about that. we want to be cautious and careful, yet we're not going to hold him back. We've just got to make sure that more than anything else he's confident in his knee and in the delivery," said manager John Farrell.Rodriguez was shut down last weekend after spraining the patella tendon in his right knee, but the talented southpaw was able to resume throwing Wednesday and has played catch each day since then. Still, Rodriguez will need to progress to throwing off a mound before a more clear timetable is set for a return to game action. Farrell also stated that he is not worried at this point about Rodriguez missing the beginning of the regular season.
Mar 4 2016Rodriguez played catch up to 100 feet and continued to give his injured right knee some activity (walking backwards) Thursday, the Boston Globe reports.Thursday's activity represented slightly more work than he had Wednesday. Manager John Farrell said it was likely the left-hander will throw a couple of bullpen sessions before seeing game action, which could come as early as next week.
Mar 2 2016Rodriguez (knee) resumed throwing Wednesday and had no issues outside of some swelling, Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez didn't throw all weekend with the issue, but it appears that he's doing better after the time off. He has yet to throw off a mound, but it's good to see some progress is being made. His timetable will likely be determined in the coming days as he progresses more.
Mar 2 2016Rodriguez (knee) has been cleared to resume throwing, Sean McAdam of CSN New England reports.Rodriguez tweaked his knee over the weekend, and the team prevented him from throwing over a 72-hour period. While the rest seems to have helped, Rodriguez has not yet been cleared to throw from a mound, and at this point the Red Sox are hopeful to have Rodriguez ready for Opening Day.
Feb 28 2016Rodriguez has a subluxation of the patella tendon in his right knee and will be evaluated after a 72-hour period of no throwing, Ian Browne of MLB.com reports.Rodriguez had to be helped off the field by trainers Saturday, but reported that he was pain-free soon after. The Red Sox aren't taking any chances with their young starter, so we'll see what the prognosis is in three days.
Feb 27 2016Rodriguez tweaked his right knee during a drill at training camp Saturday, the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez was taken off the field accompanied by team trainers and will be re-evaluated Sunday, but he reported whatever pain he felt when leaving the field had disappeared by the time he was in the training room. He told reporters he felt fine.
Feb 6 2016Rodriguez has been working this offseason to improve the precision of his slider and the introduction of a cutter, the Providence Journal reports.The slider is seen as a critical third pitch for the left-hander against whom lefty hitters had a measure of success. Seven of his 13 homers surrendered were to left-handed hitters, and lefties slugged 159 points higher against him than righties.
Feb 5 2016Rodriguez said he's fixed the problem of tipping his pitches that arose last season in the major leagues, WEEI.com reports.Rodriguez's problems began June 14 in a loss to the Blue Jays, then re-surfaced spectacularly June 25 against the Orioles. He retired the first 10 batters faced, including five by strikeout, before a Chris Parmalee double got the O's rolling. Forced to pitch from the stretch, Rodriguez allowed seven straight hits and six runs before departing. He had been tipping pitches out of the stretch by the position of his head and glove. The left-hander said he had fixed the problem by the end of the last season -- a 2.08 ERA in his final seven starts is evidence of that -- and he's been working all winter on his mechanics to remove any "tell" opponents can spot.
Sep 28 2015Rodriguez won his 10th game Monday against the Yankees as he allowed just one run on seven hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out five.Rodriguez scattered the seven hits by holding the Yankees to just one extra-base hit, a Jacoby Ellsbury double. Rodriguez hasn't allowed more than three earned runs since August 12, a seven-start stretch in which Rodriguez owns a 34:9 K:BB and has lowered his ERA from 4.83 to 3.85. This is why Rodriguez was a coveted prospect and a run that should lock him into a starting spot next season.
Sep 21 2015Rodriguez hurled a quality start in a no decision Monday against Tampa, as he allowed three runs on six hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out four.Rodriguez was sharp, as he induced 12 swinging strikes in just 91 pitches. He tossed five shutout innings after a three-run first, which included an infield single RBI from Logan Forsythe. Rodriguez owns a 3.97 ERA in in 115.2 MLB innings and will likely make only one more start this year, as his 164 innings between MLB and the minors is the most of his career.
Sep 19 2015Rodriguez will make his next start Monday in Tampa Bay, Scott Lauber of the Boston Herald reports.Red Sox interim manager Torey Lovullo said that Rodriguez will be limited to between 10 and 15 innings the rest of the season, which likely amounts to two starts. The rookie has already covered 158 innings between Triple-A Pawtucket and the big leagues this season, but hasn't shown any signs of the workload overwhelming him. He struck out nine batters in just 5.1 innings his last time out against the Orioles.
Sep 7 2015The Red Sox are discussing ways to limit Rodriguez' innings for the rest of the season, the Boston Globe reports. The young left-hander has reached a new ceiling having thrown 152.2 innings already in 2015, 7.2 innings more than his previous high.With about four or five possible starts left, Red Sox manager Torey Lovullo is looking for ways to protect Rodriguez the rest of the season. The manager, who will reset the rotation following Thursday's day off, is considering a sixth starter and limiting Rodriguez to five-inning starts.
Aug 25 2015Rodriguez will have his start skipped this weekend, the Providence Journal's Brian MacPherson reports.The Red Sox are simply opting to skip Rodriguez to monitor his innings, and he should return to the rotation early next week. Boston can move to a four-man rotation this week, meaning Joe Kelly would start Saturday and Wade Miley would get the ball on Sunday. They could also opt to give someone a spot start Saturday, but no such plan has been announced. Look for Rodriguez to return to the rotation next week either Tuesday or Wednesday at home against the Yankees. Rodriguez, who has thrown 140.2 innings this season, could conceivably be skipped again, but nothing to that effect has been announced.
Aug 23 2015Rodriguez allowed four runs (two earned) on seven hits and zero walks, striking out just one over six innings in a no-decision Sunday against the Royals.Rodriguez may have struck out just one batter, but the fact he hasn't walked a batter in back-to-back starts is certainly encouraging. Although a 4.95 ERA on the month isn't particularly promising, the young lefty's back-to-back quality starts signifies he's heading in the right direction. Rodriguez has the cards stacked against him in his next outing, however, as he's scheduled to take on Jacob DeGrom and the hot-hitting Mets.
Aug 18 2015Rodriguez was fantastic Tuesday, giving up one run on six hits while striking out five over eight innings against the Indians.This represented a nice matchup for Rodriguez, but it would have been understandable if some owners left him on the bench after he gave up eight runs in his last start against the Marlins. It may seem that Rodriguez has been pretty unpredictable lately, but in seven of his last nine starts he has given up three runs or less, so he has been solid more often than not. He also has a stretch of four straight games of inducing double-digit ground balls, which is by far his longest such streak of the season. Rodriguez will make his next start Sunday against the Royals.
Aug 12 2015Rodriguez (6-5) got torched for eight runs on nine hits and a walk over five innings in a loss to Miami on Wednesday.He gave up a leadoff home run to Dee Gordon, of all people -- a herald of what would be a very difficult day. While Rodriguez has flashed immense upside at times, as the heat he brings from the left side is quite enticing, it's clear that he's not a finished product, as he's been prone to blowups like this one. Fortunately, the Red Sox are going nowhere and can afford to be patient with him; fantasy owners, on the other hand, may want to pursue less risky options.
Aug 7 2015Rodriguez allowed two runs on six hits and two walks while striking out five in Thursday night's loss to the Yankees.Rodriguez deserved a better fate, but New York pitchers were equally tough on Boston's hitters. The young left-hander was locked in a 1-1 duel in the seventh inning, when a slider he left up and over the middle of the plate was deposited into the seats by Jacoby Ellsbury.
Jul 31 2015Rodriguez struggled through five innings, allowing three runs on six hits, walking four and striking out four, and came away with a no-decision in the Red Sox' 7-5 win over Tampa Bay.Rodriguez got off to a great start, but has come back to Earth of late and now carries a lackluster 4.34 ERA. He has recently struggled with his command and needed 110 pitches (only 64 for strikes) to cover five innings in this one. The young hurler has a nice skill set, but he is likely to face some bumps in the road as he grows into a reliable starter at the game's highest level.
Jul 27 2015Rodriguez bounced back from his shortest outing of the season, giving up one run on three hits and one walk while striking out six in Sunday's win over the Tigers. He had been rocked by the Angels last Monday when he gave up seven runs in 1.2 innings.Rodriguez threw first-pitch strikes to 18 of 25 batters faced and stayed ahead in the count all night. He's had three rough outings in his 11 starts -- attributed to behavior in which he's forecast his pitches -- and each time he's adjusted and responded in the following start. Obviously, the next step is to eliminate those valleys and stop tipping pitches.
Jul 24 2015Rodriguez has been pushed back a day and will start Sunday against the Tigers, the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez will be given an extra day of rest while Steven Wright is summoned form Triple-A Pawtucket to pitch Saturday. The rookie left-hander has been working to eliminate a "tell" in his motion since he allowed seven runs in 1.2 innings in his previous start. It was the second time this season Rodriguez has tipped his pitches when throwing from the stretch.
Jul 22 2015Rodriguez appeared to be tipping his pitches in Monday's start against the Angels, the Boston Globe reports. The rookie left-hander allowed seven runs in 1.2 innings.The Red Sox acknowledged Rodriguez was tipping his pitches earlier this season, but manager John Farrell and the pitcher himself are denying that was happening Monday. Video replays indicate otherwise and pitching coach Carl Willis was working with Rodriguez on Tuesday, trying to clean up his motion.
Jul 20 2015Rodriguez was rocked in his start Monday, allowing seven runs in 1.2 innings against the Angels.Rodriguez did not give the Red Sox the length they needed in the first game of a double-header. The rookie's ERA ballooned by more than a run thanks to the disastrous outing, bringing his mark to 4.64. He'll try to get back on track this weekend against the Tigers.
Jul 19 2015With Sunday's game postponed due to rain, Rodriguez will now face the Angels in the first game of Monday's doubleheader, the Boston Herald's Michael Silverman reports.Rodriguez will have a two-start week, pitching in Anaheim on Monday, then facing the Tigers at Fenway Park on Saturday. He'll have eight days rest for Monday's outing.
Jul 5 2015Rodriguez allowed one run on six hits and two walks while striking out eight in five innings in Sunday's win over the Astros.Rodriguez wasn't at his best Sunday. He was unable to set down the Astros in order, reached several three-ball counts, and Houston put a half-dozen men in scoring position. But Rodriguez limited the damage to one run, executing well with runners on base.
Jul 1 2015Rodriguez worked hard to correct the behavior that was tipping his pitches to hitters, the Providence Journal reports.A few of his teammates noticed Rodriguez was tipping his pitches with runners on base, tucking his chin into his chest before threw offspeed stuff out of the stretch. He slipped into that same behavior during Tuesday night's start, but was able to limit the damage, using his fastball to get out of trouble.
Jun 30 2015Red Sox pitching coach Carl Willis said "it was borderline obvious" that Rodriguez was tipping his pitches when throwing from the stretch against the Orioles last week, the Providence Journal reports. "He'd been so good out of the windup. Going back and looking at the pitches he executed from the stretch, they were still quality pitches. It's safe to say that there's a good likelihood that could have had something to do with it," said Willis.Rodriguez moved swiftly through Baltimore's lineup through three innings before a one-out double in the fourth led to the Orioles teeing off on him when pitching from the stretch. We'll get to see if Rodriguez has learned from that experience when he faces the Blue Jays on Tuesday.
Jun 30 2015Rodriguez gave up one run on four hits and two walks while striking out four over six innings Tuesday against the Blue Jays en route to picking up his fourth win of the season.The rookie had been tagged for 16 runs over his last three starts, but he was certainly not that bad of a pitcher, just like he wasn't quite as good as he appeared in his first few starts. One constant might be his 0.69 ERA and 3-0 record on the road this year, although that too is dealing with a small sample size. There was talk that he had been tipping his pitches in recent starts when working from the stretch, but the Red Sox are aware of that and it seems to be taken care of. He will make his next start at home on Sunday against the Astros, which figures to be a high-risk, high-reward outing, given the all-or-nothing approach of a lot of Houston's hitters.
Jun 26 2015Rodriguez allowed six runs on seven hits while striking out five in 3.2 innings in Thursday night's loss to the Orioles. He had retired the first 10 batters before ceding seven consecutive hits in the fourth inning.This was Rodriguez's shortest outing of the season and the second time in the last three he's been whacked pretty hard -- the Jays crossed he plate nine time against him in 4.2 innings on June 14. He said he missed his spots and couldn't locate his slider or changeup. It all went south pretty fast for the left-hander, who's scheduled to take the mound next Tuesday in Toronto.
Jun 19 2015Rodriguez allowed just one run while striking out five and walking one in 6.1 innings Friday against the Royals, earning his third win of the season.The rookie allowed an RBI double in the fifth inning but limited Kansas City to two extra-base hits and stayed out of trouble for the most part. Rodriguez has now thrown four quality starts in his first five career appearances and has a 3.13 ERA through 31.2 innings. His next start is scheduled for Thursday against the Orioles.
Jun 15 2015Rodriguez allowed nine runs on eight his and three walks while striking out one in 4.2 innings in Sunday's loss to the Blue Jays. It was the rookie left-hander's first loss in four starts.Rodriguez was victimized by a hot-hitting Toronto lineup that eventually got to him the second time through the order -- 10 runs in the fourth and fifth inning. Some shoddy defense didn't help, but that the primary culprit in this loss was the Blue Jays' hitters.
Jun 9 2015Rodriguez continued to wow Tuesday, shutting out the Orioles over six innings, but departed with a no-decision.The rookie lefty did walk three in the start, but he also struck out seven and limited Baltimore to just three hits. Through three starts, Rodriguez has a pristine 0.44 ERA. Rodriguez's fourth career start will come this weekend against the Blue Jays.
Jun 4 2015Rodriguez will start Tuesday's game against the Orioles, and with the Red Sox set to cut down to a five-man rotation, he will be a two-start pitcher next week, ESPN Boston's Gordon Edes reports.The Red Sox have not announced who will be bounced from the six-man rotation, but Rodriguez starting Tuesday means he will also be in line to start Sunday against the Blue Jays. Rodriguez has been absolutely excellent through two starts in the big leagues, allowing just one run, five hits and four walks while striking out 14 over 14.2 innings. With him set to take the ball twice next week he is basically a must-start in all weekly formats.
Jun 3 2015Rodriguez struck out seven and walked two while holding the Twins to one run on two hits over seven innings in a winning effort Wednesday.He's been excellent in his first two starts, allowing just one earned run over 14.2 frames while racking up 14 strikeouts. The Red Sox are using a six-man rotation for now, but Rodriguez is doing everything necessary to lock down a place of his own should the team opt to go back to a five-man arrangement in the near future. Rodriguez is lined up to face his former organization next week in Baltimore for his next scheduled start.
May 29 2015Rodriguez will start Wednesday's game and the Red Sox will stick with a six-man rotation for at least one more turn through the rotation, the Boston Herald's Scott Lauber reports.Rodriguez was excellent in his first big league start Thursday, and it is hard to see much of a case for sending him back to Triple-A right now. It's possible that he is the most talented of the six pitchers in Boston's rotation and unless he really struggles in Wednesday's start against the Twins he should stick in the rotation for the foreseeable future. At this point Rodriguez should be owned in almost all formats.
May 29 2015Red Sox manager John Farrell said "there's been no decision at this point" whether Rodriguez makes his next start in Boston or at Triple-A Pawtucket, the Boston Globe reports.Rodriguez' promotion was initially billed as a one-start event, but he pitched so well in Thursday night's win over Texas that Farrell and general manager Ben Cherington would be crazy to dislodge him from Boston's starting rotation.
May 28 2015Rodriguez (1-0) threw 7.2 scoreless innings, giving up only three hits and two walks while striking out seven, to win in his major league debut Thursday against the Rangers.Rodriguez became the youngest Red Sox starter to win in his major league debut on the road since 1967. The 22-year-old faced a Rangers lineup featuring sluggers Prince Fielder, Adrian Beltre and Josh Hamilton, but he did not yield a single run. Rodriguez gave up a double to Hamilton in the second, but it was the only hit he allowed in his first five innings. With two runners on base in the eighth, Rodriguez left the game before Tommy Layne got Shin-Soo Choo on a third strike.
May 27 2015Rodriguez will be called up from Triple-A Pawtucket to start Thursday against the Rangers, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez will be called up to give the Red Sox' starters an extra day of rest with the team in the midst of a stretch that will see them play 20 games in 20 days without an off day. Rodriguez is expected to be sent back to Pawtucket following Thursday's outing, but that plan is not set in stone. He had little trouble with Triple-A hitters this season in his first go-around at the level, posting a 2.98 ERA and striking out 44 batters in 48.1 innings over eight starts with Pawtucket.
Apr 13 2015Rodriguez allowed one run on five hits while striking out four for Triple-A Pawtucket on Sunday.Rodriguez survived an early spell, giving up a first-inning run and allowing five hits before recording an out in the third innings. He settled in nicely after that, retiring the final 11 batters faced. Rodriguez is part of one of the better rotations in the International League.
Mar 21 2015Rodriguez was optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket on Friday. The left-hander was having a nice spring with the big-league club, having allowed one run on five hits while not issuing a walk and striking out nine in 7.2 innings.Rodriguez, considered one of the organization's top prospects, continued a good run he had at Double-A Portland in 2014 after he was acquired from Baltimore for Andrew Miller. He posted a 0.96 ERA and 39/8 K/BB rate in six starts, and also made a start in the postseason for Triple-A Pawtucket. It is expected he'll get a look in Boston at some point in 2015.
Mar 13 2015Rodriguez didn't have his best stuff Thursday, giving up three hits in 2.2 innings, but still made an impression on manager John Farrell, WEEI.com reports. "The thing that stood out for me was on a day he didn't have his best stuff or best command, he continued to pitch," Farrell said. "He didn't let men on base speed things up on him. He showed good poise. He used all three pitches to get key outs and strikeouts with men in scoring position. I was impressed with the poise."In addition to the composure he displayed with runners on base, Rodriguez showed enough stuff to strike out four without walking a batter.
Mar 7 2015Rodriguez threw three perfect innings, striking out three, in Saturday's game against the Orioles. His fastball regularly reached 95-96 mph.The left-handed pitcher faced his former organization, who dealt him to Boston last season for Andrew Miller. Rodriguez will be among a top-prospect stable of pitchers at Triple-A Pawtucket this season, joining Henry Owens, Brian Johnson and Matt Barnes.
Jan 22 2015Rodriguez was encouraged to throw his changeup more often after joining the Red Sox organization mid-season in 2014, the Boston Herald reports. After incorporating the change more often, Rodriguez had a 0.96 ERA in six starts with Double-A Portland.Rodriguez asked then Double-A pitching coach Bob Kipper to look at his changeup and all Kipper told him was to use it more. "I really felt like this had an opportunity to be a real effective complementary pitch to his fastball and really encouraged him to find opportunities to use it," Kipper said. Rodriguez will likely open the 2015 season at Triple-A Pawtucket, where Kipper will be joining him. The coach, who worked extensively with Boston's other top pitching prospects (Henry Owens, Brian Johnson), was promoted to organization's top minor league affiliate for the 2015 season.
Jan 10 2015Rodriguez will participate in Boston's Rookie Development Program, WEEI.com reports.The program is designed to help players make the transition to become major league players. The Red Sox are particularly high on Rodriguez, who they acquired from Baltimore for Andrew Miller.
Nov 20 2014The Red Sox added Rodriguez to their 40-man roster Thursday, Sean McAdam of CSNNE.com reports.Rodriguez, whom the Red Sox acquired in the Andrew Miller deal, had to be added or else he would have been subjected to the Rule 5 draft. The 21-year-old lefty spent the 2014 season at the Double-A level, posting a 3.60 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 108:37 K:BB in 22 starts (120 innings). He figures to open 2015 at Triple-A Pawtucket.
Sep 9 2014Rodriguez will be promoted from Double-A Portland to Triple-A Pawtucket to start Wednesday's game, Tim Britton of the Providence Journal reports.Rodriguez, along with fellow Double-A lefty Brian Johnson, will join the Pawtucket rotation for the Triple-A playoffs. In 120.0 combined Double-A innings for Bowie (Orioles' affiliate) and Portland this season, Rodriguez posted a 3.60 ERA with 108 strikeouts. He was especially impressive in 37.1 innings for Portland, allowing only four earned runs while striking out 39 batters.
Jul 31 2014Rodriguez was traded to the Red Sox on Thursday in exchange for reliever Andrew Miller, Jeff Passan of Yahoo! Sports reports.Though not nearly on the same level as Dylan Bundy and Kevin Gausman as far as Orioles pitching prospects go, the left-handed Rodriguez represents a quality return for a bullpen arm. The 21-year-old has struggled at Double-A Bowie over the last two seasons, but his serviceable ratios and relative youth give him a chance at reaching the majors at some point in 2015.
May 21 2014Rodriguez (knee) will start Thursday for Double-A Bowie, MASN's Roch Kubatko reports.He has been out since mid-April with a knee injury, and this is an encouraging step in his return to form. The 21-year-old lefty is kind of the Orioles' version of what Rafael Montero represents for the Mets. He's not on the level of a Dylan Bundy or Kevin Gausman in terms of potential, but Rodriguez should eventually slot in as a mid-rotation arm for Baltimore to go along with the high-upside arms in the organization.
May 13 2014Rodriguez (knee) will throw four innings in extended spring training Wednesday, MASN Sports reports.Rodriguez has been out since mid-April after making three starts for Double-A Bowie. He remains a top pitching prospect in the organization. Wednesday's appearance is a strong indication that he could return to Double-A within a week or two.
May 7 2014Rodriguez (knee) threw 45 pitches in a side session Wednesday and will throw live batting practice Saturday, MASN's Roch Kubatko reports.He should be back pitching for Double-A Bowie relatively soon. In a system with high-end arms like Dylan Bundy, Kevin Gausman and Hunter Harvey, it's easy to forget about Rodriguez, but he has every bit the likelihood of making it in a big-league rotation as those higher end prospects, he just lacks the front-line upside, and profiles as more of a No. 3 starter.
May 3 2014Rodriguez (knee) threw 25 pitches off a half mound without pain Saturday, Eduardo Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports.Rodriguez was placed on the 7-day DL on Apr. 26 and hasn't made his way back to the field yet, but he's making progress. He has a way to go before returning to the rotation but will look to improve on the 12 earned runs and 19 hits given up in just 16 innings this season.
Jun 28 2013Rodriguez was promoted to Double-A Bowie on Friday, MiLB.com reports.The Orioles' No. 4 prospect according to MLB.com, Rodriguez went 6-4 with a 2.85 ERA over 14 starts at High-A Frederick to earn the call-up to the next rung of the minors. He figures to remain at Bowie the rest of the way and could be in the conversation for a big-league rotation spot at some point in 2014 if he finds success in the upper minors.
Mar 7 2013Rodriguez was reassigned to minor-league camp on Thursday, MASN Sports reports.Rodriguez never made an appearance this spring, though he is rising on Orioles prospect lists. A full season in High-A seems likely for the left-hander.