04/20/24
August 18, 2009
Texas Rangers Trade for Pudge Rodriguez: The Texas Rangers have acquired catcher Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez from the Houston Astros for two minor leaguers. Pudge -- profiled in today's Miami Herald before the trade -- played for the Rangers from 1991 to 2002, winning 10 Gold Gloves and the American League MVP title in 1999. He'll provide more catching help with the injury to Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
I don't think Pudge's addition tips the wild-card into the Rangers favor any, but I don't see much downside. If Salty isn't able to come back, you have an experienced C to spell Teagarden. If Jarrod does return, you've got Pudge to mentor and advise two very young catchers as the playoff race nears or (hopefully) playoff games begin. Welcome back, Pudge.
posted by Ufez Jones at 08:03 PM on August 18, 2009
I agree - this is a cheap solution to a problem. Pudge deserves to retire in a Rangers uniform. But he's pretty much an ex-juicer turned part-time player, now.
Don't get me wrong, he's a surefire HoFer - but he also has a bronze statue of himself at his house.
What's my point? You be the judge.
posted by WeedyMcSmokey at 08:51 PM on August 18, 2009
I have a bronze statue of Pudge in my house too.
I don't know if he has any juice left in the tank, but he does help with postseason experience. The team has bupkiss in that department.
posted by rcade at 09:01 PM on August 18, 2009
I've always like Pudge and hope that his return to Texas can reinvigorate his game. Welcome back!
posted by BornIcon at 10:30 AM on August 19, 2009
Seen him at Minute Maid earlier this year. Good defense but not too hot in the batter's box. Kinda shocked when i seen the thread. Good luck, Pudge!
posted by texpat at 10:55 AM on August 19, 2009
Welcome back, Pudge! It's interesting that before he left the Rangers, there was talk of moving him to the outfield to prolong his career. Management didn't feel his knees would hold up much longer at the catcher position. Seven years later, glad to see him back. Hope he can finish his career where he started.
posted by txsoccermom at 05:49 PM on August 19, 2009
We shoulda never let him get away anyhoo, but he did get a ring with the Marlins. Welcome back, Pudge.