Advertisement
Advertisement

Richard Rodriguez is Flying Under the Radar in Pittsburgh

Richard Rodriguez
Advertisement

Through the first two months of the season, Richard Rodriguez has been one of baseball’s best relievers. As the Pirates have gotten off to a 17-24 start, Rodriguez has been a bright spot. Following a strong ending to 2020, he has been even better this season. As the Pirates’ pitching has struggled at times, Rodriguez has been one of their most consistent pieces.

In 17 appearances this season, Rodriguez has posted a 0.53 ERA. The Pirates closer has also struck out 14 batters and only allowed six hits. So far in 2021, Rodriguez’s excellent control has been key to his success. Dating back to last season, he has thrived in the closer role and converted 10 of his 11 save opportunities. Despite his impressive numbers, Rodriguez is flying under the radar in Pittsburgh.

Over the past two years, Rodriguez has been a weapon out of the Pirates bullpen. In the shortened 2020 campaign, he posted a 2.70 ERA in 24 appearances. After struggling in 2019, the 31-year-old was able to bounce back and has been on an upward trend. In that span, his walk rate has improved, and he has only allowed three home runs. On a Pirates roster that has undergone a lot of change, Rodriguez has been a constant presence.

Advertisement

https://twitter.com/TalkPirates/status/1386063478293680131?s=20

Additionally, this year he has been nearly automatic with a different approach. After throwing his slider a career-high 27.3 percent last year, Rodriguez has relied on his fastball in 2021. Entering play on Monday, only two pitchers had thrown more innings with a lower ERA. Although his slider has been deadly, his fastball has lead to his early-season success.

Advertisement

Expectations for the Remainder of 2021?

While Rodriguez’s fastball has been hard to hit, it tops out at about 93 MPH. If batters adjust to his new approach, he will have to mix in his slider, which is equally effective. If the Pirates closer can continue his impressive start, he will be a popular commodity at the trade deadline. The Pittsburgh closer could net a decent return as he won’t be a free agent until 2024.

Regardless of how the season plays out, Rodriguez has been a bright spot. The Pirates don’t have to trade him, but they will most certainly get offers in the next few months. Over the last two seasons, he has shown that he can thrive in high-leverage situations. If he can continue his recent success, he may not fly under the radar for much longer.


Check us out on our socials:   
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk 
Instagram: @ptsportstalk

Follow Jamie Gatlin On Twitter @JamieGatlin17

Advertisement

Main Image Credit: 
Embed from Getty Images

Advertisement

Check us out on our socials:   
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk 
Instagram: @primetimesportstalk

Advertisement

Share this:

MLB baseball - Arizona Fall League
Latest News

Arizona Fall League to Get Underway

The Arizona Fall League is set to get underway on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Now entering its 32nd season, the league is a chance for top prospects to continue to hone and improve their skills. These prospects will get the opportunity to play with and against other rising stars from all over MiLB.

Read More
MLB Astros Mauricio Dubon bunting
Latest News

Bunting in MLB has Declined

Bunting in MLB has declined. Moreover, it has some wondering if this unique way to get a hit or move a runner up will become a thing of the past. There is a time and a place to lay down the bunt for a hit or to move the runner along, but managers today are using it less and less.

Read More

One Response

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement
Browse by Category:
Advertisement
Advertisement

Visit ChiefsBlitz.com for
hard-hitting KC Chiefs coverage.