Chicago Cubs acquire Fernando Rodney from Seattle Mariners

The Chicago Cubs acquired right-handed reliever Fernando Rodney from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for cash considerations.

Rodney, 38, led the major leagues with 48 saves last season but was designated for assignment on Sunday after losing his closer's role earlier in the year and posting a 5.68 ERA while blowing six of 22 save opportunities and appearing in 54 appearances.

"It just never worked for him," Mariners manager Lloyd McClendon said after Rodney was designated for assignment. "This is a funny game."

The Cubs' bullpen has been a strength this season, but has been heavily utilized with few starters working deep into games. The team also placed right-hander Jason Motte on the disabled list on Monday with a strained shoulder. Motte leads the bullpen with eight victories this season.

"They are healthy and not overworked," Maddon said last week before Motte was placed on the DL. "We have hit a little bit of a speed bum (the lack of starters' innings). We are going to get back on a good roll because (the starters) are healthy and not overextended."

The Cubs are also in the middle of a stretch of games on 16 consecutive days, with their next off day not until Sept. 3.