Los Angeles Angels closer Francisco Rodriguez tied a Major League Baseball record Thursday night by recording his 57th save of the season in the Halos’ 7-4 win over the Seattle Mariners.
“Tell you what,” he said, “I’d trade the record for a ring. To win a championship, not every year you can win a championship. That’s what I’m here for, and that’s what I really want now.
“I look forward to continue doing what I’m doing and staying healthy for the full year.”“When you’re sitting on a seven-run lead,” Angels manager Mike Scioscia said, “the furthest thing from your mind is getting your closer in. But when it’s a save opportunity, Frankie’s going to get it. He’s done a great job.
“You can’t help but pull for him. He’s had an incredible season, an unbelievable career. When he gets one more, it’s going to be something that’s special. I know Bobby Thigpen and how hard he worked for his 57 saves.”
I remember watching the 2002 World Series when K-Rod first broke out. You could tell then that he had something special and was going to be a great closer in the future. He’s a special kind of player and like Scioscia said, he’s easy to root for.
