Monday, February 25, 2013

Rodriguez close to game-ready

USA Today Sports Images
Henry Rodriguez has yet to appear in a game this spring.
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- Reliever Henry Rodriguez, being brought along slowly by the Nationals this spring following last year's elbow surgery, is close to being cleared to pitch in games and make his case for a spot in the Opening Day bullpen.

Rodriguez threw off a bullpen mound yesterday in front of team officials and looked sharp, according to manager Davey Johnson.

The Nationals will have the right-hander throw one more bullpen session, then face hitters in a "live BP" setting before he appears in a Grapefruit League game. That's similar to the plan the club has for recently signed right-hander Chris Young.

Even if he doesn't make his spring debut until next week, Rodriguez still has plenty of time to earn a roster spot. He's one of several pitchers in the running for the final spot in the Nationals' bullpen -- along with fellow right-hander Christian Garcia and non-roster lefty Bill Bray -- and probably holds the upper hand based on the fact he's out of options and can't be sent to the minors without first clearing waivers.
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13 comments:

Theophilus T. S. said...

What a joke!

SCNatsFan said...

I can almost hear his back creaking and an early season stint on the dl

phil dunton said...

No, please, not again. I can't bear the thought of having to watch this turkey try to throw a strike again this seson. Donate him to the WBC with the hope that he never returns.

Ishmael said...

I hope he makes the opening day roster and fulfills his potential. He's got great stuff.

UnkyD said...

HRod is my BOY!!!! Set 'em up, and MOW 'EM DOWN!!!

MicheleS said...

Stocking up on the bourbon and maalox now. COME ON HENRY! YOU CAN DO IT! (as I become addicted to the bourbon)

Holden Baroque said...

PFB.

Drew said...

What did I do with that strait jacket?

Unknown said...

Lol Michelle. Memories of last years bourbon n maalox r cracking me up

This year it's gonna be Woodford n tums.

BigCat said...

Straight gas homey!!!!

Knoxville Nat said...

"This year it's gonna be Woodford n tums."

Scott M.,

I wouldn't waste Woodford on tums, use a cheaper bourbon and save the Woodford for when the Nats shut down the Braves, cards or other top opponents.

NitsAndNats said...

I've never understood why the Nats are so steadfast in their desire to keep HROD around. Yes, he has great stuff, but it's mixed in between wild pitches and BB. If he does make the opening day roster, I hope it's a very hot seat.

ehay2k said...

Nits and Nats, you must have missed Henry's great outings: An 11 pitch inning. Another where the opposing batter (Barves catcher?) surrendered at the plate by meekly offering and MISSING a bunt with 2 strikes, etc.

Henry is here because when he throws 100Mph and is in control, he is the pure definition of PFB.

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