Rodney Madden

Chicago Cyclones (2000-
In the 2000 Inaugural Draft, Madden was drafted in the twelveth round by the Chicago Cyclones. Already being projected as one of the best reliever in baseball, Madden had immense expectations entering his first season. He appeared in limited circumstances, pitching 12.2 innings over the course of 13 games and recorded a win and no loss. His ERA was relatively good at 2.84 and ended the season with a respectable 15 K.

For the 2001 Season, the Cyclones were badly in need of a starting pitcher and instead of hiring someone, they chose Madden as one of their starter even if they knew he would not be able to pitch a lot. Madden took the opportunity anyway, but he rapidly regretted it. He ended the season with a horrifying 2-7 record in 66 innings. Madden then extended his contract with the team, but only if he was put back in the bullpen and Chicago accepted the request.

In 2002, Madden was back in the bullpen and he proved his doubters wrong. He pitched in 24.2 innings and kept a really low 0.36 ERA,, allowing 1 run in the entire year. He ended the season with a 3-0 record. He was awarded with the ABA Reliever of the Year Award at the end of the year. Feeling he was too good for the Chicago team, he rejected a contract extension and went on the free agent market.

New York Bombers (2003-
A hot commodity during the offseason, Madden analyzed every opportunities and finally opted for New York, signing a three-year deal with the organization.

Awards
1X ABA Reliever of the Year (2002)