ARLINGTON, Texas — Ivan Rodriguez is coming home to the Rangers.
The 14-time all-star catcher who started his career with the Rangers at age 19 was acquired in a trade Tuesday with the Astros for minor-league pitcher Matt Nevarez and two players to be named.
“It’s been a long time,” said Rodriguez, who was with the Rangers from 1991-2002. “I’m glad that I’m back.”
Rodriguez, 37, signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract with the Astros in March and went on to hit .251 with eight home runs and 34 RBIs in 93 games. But the Astros have faded in the NL playoff chase, while the Rangers are contending for the AL wild-card berth.
Rangers manager Ron Washington said Rodriguez would back up Taylor Teagarden, who became the starting catcher when Jarrod Saltalamacchia went on the disabled list last week. Rodriguez agreed to waive his no-trade clause after telling the Rangers he could accept a backup role.
“He was the Johnny Bench of his era,” Washington said. “And I still think he has the ability to do some great things. He’s not that old.”
• The Astros placed left-hander Mike Hampton on the 15-day disabled list with a shoulder strain and recalled Felipe Paulino from Triple-A Round Rock. Yorman Bazardo will take Hampton’s start today against Florida.
Kuroda likely headed to DL
LOS ANGELES — Dodgers right-hander Hiroki Kuroda, who was hit in the head by a line drive in Arizona last weekend, probably will be placed on the DL while he recovers from a concussion, manager Joe Torre said.
Right-hander Jeff Weaver will take Kuroda’s turn in the rotation Thursday in the series opener against the Cubs.
Footnotes.
The Cubs demoted closer Kevin Gregg, who has blown three of his last five save chances, and replaced him with right-hander Carlos Marmol.
• Twins first baseman Justin Morneau is day to day because of an inner-ear infection that is causing dizziness.
• The Rays activated reliever Chad Bradford (back) from the DL and optioned infielder Reid Brignac to Triple-A Durham.
• Braves infielder Martin Prado was removed from Atlanta’s loss to the Mets because of a severe headache.
• Reds center fielder Willy Taveras left Cincinnati’s game against the Giants with a right quadriceps strain.
• Third baseman Alex Gordon, regarded in spring training as one of baseball’s top prospects, was demoted to the minor leagues by the Royals.
• Red Sox right-hander Tim Wakefield (back) threw a bullpen session but is not ready to return to Boston’s starting rotation. The Associated Press
