K-Rod becomes fastest to 40 saves

Closer reaches tally in just 98 games; Smoltz second with 108 ANAHEIM -- By striking out the side to preserve the Angels' 5-3 win over the Red Sox on Sunday, closer Francisco Rodriguez became the fastest pitcher to tally 40 saves in Major League history. Rodriguez has now saved 40 games in just 98 team games for the Angels this season, breaking John Smoltz's record for fastest to 40 saves. Smoltz got to 40 saves in 108 team games for the Braves in 2003. "To get to 40 at this time is unbelievable," Rodriguez said. "That's a target. That's pretty much a whole season. Last year I got to 40 saves in the last game of the season." But Rodriguez said he's trying not to think about possibly breaking Bobby Thigpen's record of 57 saves with the White Sox in 1990. "Now you guys make me think about that record," Rodriguez said. "I'm... [read full story]