Abstract: An engine or other machine has an improved configuration for a connecting rod a wrist pin cradled and fastened on a saddle of the rod. The improved configuration allows fluid flow through the rod to the interior of the wrist pin while reducing the tendency for cracks in the saddle. The configuration includes a fastener which has a through bore and which extends from a void in the rod to the interior of the wrist pin. The fastener fits closely with holes in the wrist pin and the saddle, and a nut fixed in the wrist pin threads with the fastener, whereby the nut and fastener prevent relative motion between the wrist pin and the saddle. The saddle has only one aperture, so the saddle is stronger than prior designs.