Rookie Walden To Takeover Closer Role For Angels

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) -- Angels right-hander Fernando Rodney has been dropped from the closer role to work on his mechanics.

Los Angeles manager Mike Scioscia said on Tuesday that Jordan Walden will fill in for Rodney, who is working to make his delivery more compact.

Rodney allowed two runs, two hits and four walks over 1 1-3 innings in his first two appearances this season.

Walden pitched in three of the Angels' first four games, giving up one hit in 2 1-3 scoreless innings.

Also, left-hander Scott Downs, on the 15-day disabled list with a broken left big toe, threw a one-inning simulated game before the Angels played Tampa Bay and could pitch in a minor league game this week.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)