Troy E. Renck of the Denver Post takes a look at Brian Fuentes’ impending free agency. The 33 year-old closer would prefer to return to the Rockies, but he hasn’t heard from the team and expects to explore the open market.
Renck says Fuentes’ agent views Brad Lidge as a comparable. Lidge signed a three-year, $37.5MM extension in July. He’s a bit younger than Fuentes, but the comparision seems reasonable. Fuentes is in a great position this winter as the best alternative to Francisco Rodriguez, who will receive a record-breaking deal for a reliever.
Fuentes intends to sign with a team that will allow him to close, and has a slight preference for the West Coast. Both L.A. teams could consider him, though both have good internal options. Fuentes also acknowledged that Billy Wagner’s injury could affect his situation.
