Francisco Rodriguez

Major League Baseball closing pitcher Francisco Rodriguez currently plays for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Rodriguez began his MLB career on September 24, 1998, when he signed as an undrafted free agent with the then named Anaheim Angels. He joined the Angels minor league affiliates in 1999 for his first few years.

On September 18, 2002, Rodriguez was called up to make his MLB debut with the Angels, playing in five games that season, pitching 5.7 innings and not allowing a single run. Rodriguez also appeared in his first post season game with the Angels in 2002, where they won the World Series over the San Francisco Giants.

He joined the full roster of the Angels in 2003, playing in 59 games. In 2004 Rodriguez was selected for his first MLB All-Star Game, where he appeared again in 2007. He was also selected as the American League Saves Champion in both the 2005 and 2006 seasons.

Fast Facts

1. Full name: Francisco José Rodriguez
2. Born: January 7, 1982
3. Birthplace: Caracas, Venezuela
4. Nickname: K-Rod
5. Bats: Right
6. Throws: Right
7. Signed: 1998, Anaheim
8. All-Star Appearances: 1
9. 2006 ERA: 1.73
10. 2006 saves: 47
11. 2007 All-Star Selection

Setting Single Season Saves Record

On September 11, 2008, Rodriguez tied the record for most saves in a single season. The original record was held by Bobby Thigpen of the Chicago White Sox, who set the record in 1990.¹

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