The Mets’ new management regime has already committed to using Francisco Rodriguez at closer next season, but that doesn’t mean the right-hander can put the events of August 11 behind him. At least, not yet.
According to the New York Daily News, Rodriguez will plead guilty Friday in a New York court to an assault charge against his girlfriend’s father. It’s part of a plea deal that will keep him out of jail and require him to attend anger management courses instead.
Rodriguez, 28, was actually quite effective on the mound this past season, posting a 2.20 ERA and 1.15 wHIP over 57.1 innings while saving 25 games in 30 chances.
He underwent surgery on his thumb this fall to repair an injury that he suffered during the August assault. But he’s already begun a throwing program and is fully expected to be ready by the start of spring training.
