"Pudge" Rodriguez Signs With Houston

photo from: vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Story By - Mary Clausen

March 16.  The future Hall of Fame catcher is a Keeper to the Houston Astros. They weren't sure whether they would sign him at first - it was an "economic issue." They don't have the "issue" any more and offered him a one-year contract this afternoon worth $1.5 Million.  The word around town is that it was "extremely unlikely" that the deal would be finalized today because  Rodriguez needs to still have to pass a physical after he completes play at the World Baseball Classic with Puerto Rico.

Ivan Rodriguez aka Pudge aka I-Rod is ranked as one of the greatest defensive catchers in the history of the major leagues.  Definitely looks like a Keeper Houston!   He initially signed with the Texas Rangers in 1991 (in 1991 he was the youngest person to catch in the major leagues that season) and played with them for 12 years.  Rodruguez was the American League Most Valuable Player in 1999.  He became a free agent and signed with the Florida Marlins in 2003.  Rodriguez was selected as the 2003 National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player.  He chose not to return to the Marlins following the 2003 season and went to the Detroit Tigers in 2004. He played with the Tigers until he was traded to the New York Yankees in 2008.

The right-handed Astro pitcher, Roy Oswalt is excited about becoming teammates with the 14-time All-Star.  He said Monday, "I am glad we got him.  It's going to help us out for sure."  He's looking forward to working with him.

At the World Baseball Classic, Rodriguez has been playing great baseball for Puerto Rico.  Top Astro scouts, Fred Nelson and Paul Ricciarini, have been watching him play and raving about him.  Life's good in Houston.