Francisco Rodriguez

From The Met Wiki

Age: age 27 (born January 7 1982)

Position: Relief pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Number: 75

Acquired: Free agent offseason 2008-2009

Contract: three-year, $37 million

Francisco Rodriguez also known as K-Rod turned 27 in January. He came to the Mets from the LA Angels in the offseason of 2008, he is the Mets new and improved closer, replacing Billy Wagner who will be out until at least August 2009, and may miss the entire season.

[edit] The LA Angels Years

K-Rod made his Major League debut in 2001 for the Angles as a relief pitcher. He was a playoff hero, winning five games in that postseason -- this is all before registering his first regular season victory.

As an Angels closer K-Rod has three MLB records: - Youngest pitcher to reach 200 career saves - Youngest pitcher to reach 50 saves in a season - Most saves in a season

In each season since 2005 he recorded more than 40 saves with a ERA under 3.00. He led the AL in saves three times and is also a three-time All-Star.

[edit] Coming to New York

As was widely expected, the Mets signed K-Rod after the 2008 season. The three year, $37 million deal (with an option for the fourth year) was much less money than most thought the Mets would have to commit. He and J.J. Putz are expected to take care of the back of the bullpen for the Mets.