There was a sentiment in oil circles there to go for market share (like Russian's strategy), rather than OPEC restricted levels. Rodriguez has been an OPEC hawk, running around the world to demand restrictions, ask Russia to join OPEC, etc.
These restrictions benefit the Arab countries, since more Venez' oil would lower the price of their own, and Venezuela is closer to the U.S.
Castro has been cozying up to Iran over the years. He also provides infrastructure and guidance to Chavez' block committes and goon squads.
Castro may have a new paymaster - Iran - and his obligation is to depress Venezuelan oil production. And Colombian production too, under the guise of helping the poor via "Marxist" terrorist organizations, which are more like warlords.
Chavez relies on Castro's help in creating "popular support", and any "compromise" is negated if he appoints Rodriguez as oil company head - the real demand of Chavez' allies.
Otherwise, why is it so important to put in Rodriguez except to circumvent the plan to increase market share?