Rodriguez Finishes Month in a Groove
Francisco Rodriguez capped a spectacular month Monday by pitching 2 2/3 innings of perfect relief, and his resurgence has moved him back into the Angels’ mix of setup men for closer Troy Percival.
Rodriguez compiled a 1.15 earned-run average in 10 June appearances, lowering his season ERA from 4.85 to 3.46. The right-hander has not given up a run in 8 1/3 innings dating to June 16.
“I’m doing the same thing I did in the postseason -- challenging the hitter, making first-pitch strikes and getting ahead in the count,” said Rodriguez, who recorded five postseason victories. “I’m trying to find the Francisco Rodriguez that I know.”
Angel Manager Mike Scioscia said Rodriguez is “probably pitching better than we’ve seen him at any time, even last year in the postseason.” Rodriguez has refined the mechanics that were out of whack earlier in the season and is working ahead in the count on a more consistent basis.
Said Rodriguez: “Don’t forget this: It’s not how you start but how you finish.”
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Designated hitter Brad Fullmer underwent season-ending knee surgery. He was injured while running out a grounder against Seattle on Thursday.
-- Ben Bolch
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