2009 FBS Sleeper Player: Fernando Rodney

Team: Detroit Tigers
Throws: Right

Position: RP

After Todd Jones FINALLY retired it looked as though Fernando Rodney would finally get his chance to close games full time. Throughout his career he has been given opportunities whenever injuries or ineffectiveness have forced the Tigers to throw him in the 9th. 2009 looked to be the year that he would be the undisputed closer from the start. However, the Tigers did acquire Brandon Lyon to help push Rodney and perhaps take the job from him. Lyon did get off to a good start last season before imploding late in the season, so I'm not sure how much competition he will be. Rodney has always had an electric arm that always results in a good number of strikeouts. He has battled wildness throughout his career however, which could put a hurting on your WHIP. The Tigers should have a much better season than they did last year, which means that Rodney should have plenty of opportunities to get you saves. I wouldn't go picking him before the elite closers, or even someone like B.J. Ryan, but as a low end second closer or a very good third closer, Rodney should be a very solid pick who will fill up your strikeout column if nothing else.

Prediction: 2.85 ERA, 3-2 record, 1.23 WHIP, 80 Ks, 28 saves