Richard Rodriguez

Richard Rodriguez was suspended 80-games for violating MLB's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

Fantasy Impact

It was a tale of two seasons for Rodriguez last year who was a dominant closer in Pittsburgh but struggled after being traded to Atlanta at the deadline. Rodriguez is currently a free agent and likely won't be signed anytime soon due to his suspension.

RHP Richard Rodriguez is on the move to Atlanta, ESPN's Jeff Passan reports.

Fantasy Impact

Rodriguez was tremendous to start the 2021 campaign, and while he has been through some bumps as of late, he figures to be a key cog in a Braves bullpen that has struggled to find trusted arms this season. He could feasibly share save opportunities with Will Smith.

Jason Mackey of the Post-Gazette reports that the Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies are in talks with the Pittsburgh Pirates for right-hander Richard Rodriguez.

Fantasy Impact

Rodriguez has been the subject of trade rumors and is expected to be moved to a contender by the Pirates before the MLB trade deadline on July 31st. The Blue Jays, Phillies, and Athletics are among the teams interested. According to Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports, Phillies catcher Rafael Marchan has been discussed as a potential trade piece to acquire the Pirates right-hander. Rodriguez has been excellent this season as the Pirates closer, converting 14-of-17 save chances along with a 2.82 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, and 33 strikeouts across 38 1/3 innings.

Jon Morosi of the MLB Network reports that the Oakland Athletics are prioritizing a bullpen upgrade and have shown interest in Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Richard Rodriguez.

Fantasy Impact

Rodriguez has been the subject of trade rumors and is expected to be moved to a contender by the Pirates before the MLB trade deadline on July 31st. He’s been excellent this season as the Pirates closer, converting 14-of-17 save chances along with a 2.82 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, and 33 strikeouts across 38 1/3 innings. If traded to Oakland, Rodriguez would compete with Lou Trivino for save opportunities, hindering his fantasy value. Stay tuned.

Richard Rodriguez converted his 14th save of the season Friday against the Giants, but allowed one run on one hit and one walk. He struck out two.

Fantasy Impact

Rodriguez allowed an RBI triple to LaMonte Wade with two outs, but was still able to convert the save. He's 14-for-17 in save chances this season with a 2.82 ERA and 33 strikeouts in 38.1 innings.