MLB Trade Rumors: Astros not Shopping Wandy Rodriguez

There were several high-profile starting pitchers dealt this offseason.  While most of the trades caught few by surprise, many around the game were shocked at the lack of interest in Astros left-hander Wandy Rodriguez.  With all of the changes going on in Houston, many assumed Rodriguez would be dealt for prospects.  However, Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow told Stephen Goff of the Houston Astros Examiner that Rodriguez factors into Houston’s plans for the upcoming season.

As one of the more consistent starters in the majors over the past several seasons, Rodriguez figured to appeal to teams looking to add pitching this winter.  While it initially seemed as if the Astros were shopping all of their veteran players, the only significant trade Houston made this offseason was trading closer Mark Melancon.

While teams likely checked in on Rodriguez throughout the offseason, Luhnow told Goff a deal was never close.  Goff added that this was likely the case because the Astros were not willing to eat any of Rodriguez’s contract in order to facilitate a trade.

Regarding Rodriguez, Luhnow said that the left-hander has value to the Astros.  Luhnow called Rodriguez an important piece of Houston’s roster and “plan”.

Last season for the Astros, Rodriguez maintained an ERA and WHIP of 3.49 and 1.314 over his 30 starts spanning 191 innings.  The 33-year-old has started at least 30 games four of the past five years and sports a career ERA and WHIP of 4.07 and 1.346.

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