Manager A.J. Preller indicated Thursday that Rodney continues to display velocity consistent with previous seasons, and currently appears to be the favorite for the closer job, Dennis Lin of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

EDGE Analysis

The 38-year-old reliever struggled in the role with the Mariners last season, but was eventually moved to the Cubs and finished the season strong (0.75 ERA, 1.00 WHIP with 15 strikeouts in 12 innings). Preller said that there's been "nothing promised" to Rodney, indicating he'll still likely need to earn the job in spring training. However, it appears he'll enter camp in the driver's spot for the role, with Kevin Quackenbush considered the top alternate to serve in that capacity should Rodney fail to impress in spring training.