Los Angeles Angels vs Detroit Tigers Live Streaming

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7:05 pm EDT Fri Apr 30, 2010

Back in Detroit for the first time since signing with the Los Angeles Angels, Fernando Rodney says he’s happy with his current role in the bullpen. With Jose Valverde closing out games, the Tigers may not miss Rodney. Boasting the top bullpen in the majors, the Tigers seek their third straight victory both overall and against the Angels when the teams open a weekend series Friday night at Comerica Park. Rodney, who spent his first seven seasons in Detroit, got his chance to be a full-time closer in his 2009 contract year. He took full advantage, converting 37 of 38 opportunities. In the offseason, he bolted the Tigers for Los Angeles - a team with an established veteran closer in Brian Fuentes. Perhaps lured by the Angels’ offer of $11 million over two years, Rodney insists he’s content to serve in any capacity for a three-time reigning division champion and perennial contender.

Rodney spent some time in the closer’s role earlier this month when a back strain sidelined Fuentes. He took full advantage, converting all five save opportunities including two against the Tigers. Opponents are batting .108 against him on the season. Meanwhile, even without Rodney, the bullpen has emerged as Detroit’s biggest strength. Anchored by Valverde - Houston’s former closer and a free-agent acquisition - the Tigers have a major league-best 2.22 relief ERA. Valverde earned his seventh save and lowered his ERA to 0.82 with a scoreless ninth inning Thursday afternoon, helping the Tigers beat Minnesota 3-0 to take two out of three from the AL Central leaders. After Dontrelle Willis threw six innings of four-hit ball in Detroit’s first shutout of the season, the relief corps may need to prepare for heavier work with Rick Porcello on the mound Friday. The second-year right-hander has given up six runs in each of his last two starts and yielded 10 hits in four innings of Sunday’s 8-4 loss at Texas.