Bucs: Pirates Trade For Pitcher Wandy Rodriguez
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) -- According to multiple reports, the Pittsburgh Pirates have acquired left-handed starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez in a trade with the Houston Astros.
In return, Pittsburgh sent minor leaguers Rudy Owens, Colton Cain and Robbie Grossman to Houston.
CBS Sports' John Heyman was the first to officially report the trade.
Rodriguez will strengthen the Buccos' starting rotation. He has a 7-9 overall record this season with a 3.79 ERA in 130 2/3 innings pitched. Rodriguez has 89 strikeouts to just 32 walks.
The Pirates have actively been looking for two things in the trade market: a corner outfielder with power and a starting pitcher. This trade with Houston takes care of the latter.
Pittsburgh had interest in adding a starter because of weaknesses at the bottom of the rotation. Kevin Correia and Erik Bedard have been shaky at times, though Bedard seems to have turned things around since the All-Star break.
James McDonald has struggled since the break, too, furthering the value of a quality arm to add to the starting rotation.
Rodriguez is under contract through the 2013 season with an option for 2014. His current deal is worth $34 million, however the Astros will pay slightly more than $12 million of his remaining money.
Pittsburgh will pay him $1.7 million this season and $8.5 million in 2013. If Rodriguez exercises his option, the Pirates will pay him $7.5 million in 2014.
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Chris Gates | Bucs Blog
Twitter.com/Chris_Gates
Chris.Gates@cbsradio.com
