Francisco Rodriguez has been known for some time as one of the better closers in the game. After a few shaky years from 2010 to 2013, K-Rod returned to form in 2014 while racking up 44 saves for the Brewers. Last year was another decent year for Rodriguez, who recorded 38 saves while striking out 9.79 batters per nine and walking just 1.74 in 2015.
Rodriguez was acquired by the Tigers this offseason as part of Detroit's efforts to bolster its long-suffering bullpen. And while there are many positive things about Rodriguez's last two seasons in Milwaukee, he does not come without risk. Last season, K-Rod turned in an all-time-low average fastball velocity that was below 90 MPH, and opposing batters turned in a LD% of 23.6 against him as a result--the third highest of his 13-year career.
While neither of these numbers are absolute deal breakers--especially if you can nab Rodriguez in the later rounds or off waivers--they should still give fantasy owners pause about the 34-year-old closer. There are certainly other relievers on the market with less uncertainty heading into the new MLB season.