Los Angeles.– Reliever Fernando Rodney has reached a preliminary agreement with the Los Angeles Angels on a two-year deal worth US$11 million, a source familiar with the negotiations told the press on Wednesday.

The deal hasn't been finalized and Rodney must pass a physical before his contract can be completed, the anonymous source said.

The hard-throwing Dominican right-hander had 37 saves last season with a 4.40 ERA and just one blown save. Rodney spent the past seven seasons in the Detroit Tigers' bullpen, including the past two as their intimidating and productive closer.

Rodney is a valuable addition to the three-time AL West champions' bullpen, which struggled last season after several years among baseball's best. At the least, Rodney will be a valuable setup option alongside Scot Shields, Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger for the Angels.

Rodney also could compete with closer Brian Fuentes, who led the majors with 48 saves but also struggled in several key games, posting a 4.81 ERA after the all-star break.