The Frisco RoughRiders, Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, see another member of the roster get a promotion. Relief pitcher Ricardo Rodriguez has been promoted to the Texas Rangers. He has had a phenomenal season for Frisco, and will now look to showcase his talents at the Major League Baseball level. The two clubs announced Tuesday that Rodriguez’s contract has been purchased by the Rangers.
From the RidersBaseball.com release:
“Rodriguez, 24, is in the midst of a stellar season between the RoughRiders, Texas’ Double-A affiliate, and Advanced-A Down East. In 35 outings, he’s 5-1 with a 1.34 ERA and has converted all 17 of his save chances. He has only permitted runs in three of his 35 appearances this season.
The righty gained notoriety throughout the farm system when he retired 45 consecutive batters in a 12-outing span with Down East from May 14-June 28. He leaves Frisco having allowed two runs in 15 innings, including 11 1/3 consecutive scoreless frames to close out his time with the squad.
Rodriguez will be seeking his Major League debut with the Rangers. He would become the 138th former Riders player to reach the Major Leagues.”
It’s no secret that the Texas Rangers have struggled with reliable bullpen pitchers. The relief effort has been less than desirable. The club has cycled through relief pitchers this season, failing to produce any success. With starting pitching on the fringe, it’s crucial for the Rangers to find some stability in the bullpen.
The Frisco RoughRiders have had some success with relievers, and that has allowed the Rangers a pool to draw from. Hopefully, he can make an impact for the Rangers, and continue to be reliable at the highest level of play.
Follow Blake Cole on Twitter (@blakeacole) for more on Ricardo Rodriguez, the Texas Rangers, and the Frisco RoughRiders.
*Featured image courtesy of the Down East Woo Ducks.