Milwaukee Brewers: Top Ten Relievers in Franchise History

8. Francisco Rodriguez

Years as a Brewer: 2011-2015

250.2 IP, 3.54 FIP, 1.08 WHIP

Rodriguez will be remembered most for his time with the Angels, but his time with Milwaukee cannot be overlooked. K-Rod came over from the Mets in a deal where the Brewers looked to improve their chances at a World Series in 2011. While they fell short of that goal, K-Rod was very solid in his time with Milwaukee.

Coming over to the Crew in 2011, Rodriguez was a key fixture in getting the ball in John Axford‘s hand at the end of the game. He had a 1.86 ERA with a 1.14 WHIP in 2011. However, Rodriguez didn’t enjoy being the setup man and was upset with Brewers management on his role. Despite his displeasure with his role the Brewers were able to retain him for the 2012 season on a one year deal worth $8 million dollars. The 2012 season showcased a drop in performance. He was average with a 3.83 FIP and 1.33 WHIP in 72 innings.

After a disappointing 2012 season, the Brewers were able to bring K-Rod back again, but this time on a minor league deal with $2 million dollars. He pitched well and they shipped him off to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for prospect Nicky Delmonico.

Milwaukee decided to bring K-Rod back for the 2014 season granting him full control of the closer’s role. He shined in 2014 and 2015 earning back to back trips to the All-Star game. Rodriguez was traded in the offseason of 2016 where the Brewers acquired current catcher Manny Pina from the Detroit Tigers.