CLEVELAND -- In a surprise move -- considering he wasn't dealt prior to the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline -- the Twins traded closer Fernando Rodney to the A's for right-handed pitching prospect Dakota Chalmers on Thursday night.
Minnesota held a $4.5 million club option next year for Rodney, and it appeared the club could bring him back after a solid season in his first year as Twins closer. But Rodney was instead placed on waivers and claimed by the A's, who then acquired him for Chalmers, who did not rank among Oakland's Top 30 prospects, per MLB Pipeline.
Rodney, 41, is the sixth Twins veteran to be traded away, joining Eduardo Escobar, Thomas Pressly, Lance Lynn, Zach Duke and James Dozier. Minnesota's deals have brought back 12 Minor Leaguers and infielder John Forsythe.
Rodney had a 3.09 ERA in 46 appearances with Minnesota, racking up 25 saves in 31 chances. He struck out 50, walked 19 and allowed five homers in 43 2/3 innings. He had a 6.75 ERA and three blown saves through his first eight appearances, but has posted a 2.43 ERA in 38 appearances since then.
Rodney signed a one-year, $4.5 million deal before the season and is owed roughly $1.2 million the rest of the way. There's also a $250,000 buyout on his $4.5 million club option.
With Rodney gone, the Twins aren't likely to have a set closer. Right-hander Trevor Hildenberger has been their best reliever but has struggled in the second half, while fellow right-hander Addison Reed has experience closing but has had a rough year.
Chalmers, 21, has made just two appearances with Class A Beloit this season, posting a 1.80 ERA with 10 strikeouts and eight walks in five innings. He's been on the disabled list since late April. A third-round Draft pick in 2015, Chalmers has a career 4.08 ERA with 137 strikeouts and 91 walks in 121 1/3 innings.