Pirates Acquire Wandy Rodriguez From the Astros

Wandy Rodriguez has been a perennial trade target it seems.  Every summer comes and goes with rumors of Wandy trades that never come to fruition.  This season seemed to be the same until the Pittsburgh Pirates stepped in.  The surprisingly talented Pirates are 54-42 and in second place in the National League Central.  To help bolster their postseason run, they have acquired the left-handed Rodriguez from the Houston Astros.

According to Yahoo! Sports and the Associated Press, the Astros will pay up to $17.7 million of Rodriguez’s remaining $30 million in salary.  The money owed to Rodriguez has long been the hold-up to any deals for the 33-year old.

In the deal, the Pirates will send pitchers Rudy Owens and Colton Cain, as well as outfielder Robbie Grossman to Houston.  The Astros have been scooping up young prospects in anticipation of a rebuilding process that could net big returns in three to four years.  Just a few days ago, they pulled off a ten-player deal with the Toronto Blue Jays that included some young talent to help them toward rebuilding.

Rodriguez’s trade to the Pirates means Pittsburgh is serious about contending.  Their owner has said they will spend the money necessary to keep this team rolling.  Unlike last season’s team, this year’s Pirates hope to keep the magic alive.  Last year on this date, Pittsburgh was 54-47 and in first place.  They would go on to finish 72-90 (18-43 down the stretch).

Rodriguez is 7-9 with a 3.79 ERA this season.  In his career, he has posted a 4.04 ERA.  The Pirates have A.J. Burnett and James McDonald to anchor their staff.  Rodriguez should add the needed support to help them continue their run of success.

In Owens, Cain, and Grossman, the Astros are getting minor leaguers with a chance to make a difference when their time comes.  Owens has a 3.14 ERA at Triple-A this season.  Cain has a 4.20 ERA at High-A this year.  And Grossman is hitting .262/.374/.403 at Double-A.

For more on the Pirates, be sure to check out Rum Bunter. 

For more on the Astros, be sure to check out Climbing Tal’s Hill.