Brian Fuentes, the most accomplished closer in Rockies’ history, will become a frequent opponent of Matt Holliday, one of the most feared hitters in Rockies’ history.
Fuentes will join the Los Angeles Angels on a two-year, $17.5 million deal. The contract also includes a $9 million vesting option if he finishes 55 games in 2010.
The Angels have scheduled a conference call for this afternoon. Holliday was traded to Oakland in November, setting up enticing American League West matchups between the two former Rockies’ all-stars.
When the Mets fell out of the picture, signing Francisco Rodriguez, Fuentes identified the Angels as his first choice. He lives in California full-time, and there’s where his extended family resides. The Cardinals were the remaining aggressive suitor, but the Angels identified Fuentes as their top priority after losing free agent Mark Teixeira to the Yankees.
Because Fuentes is a Type-A free agent, the Rockies will receive two compensatory draft picks, including the Angels’ 33rd pick in the amateur June draft.
Fuentes finished with a flourish last season after taking over the closer’s role from Manuel Corpas. He posted a 2.73 ERA, and watched his strikeouts per inning return to form. Fuentes, 33, leaves as the Rockies’ all-time saves leader.
