Royals acquire Rodriguez from Braves
The Royals announced Monday night that they traded outfielder Matt Diaz to the Braves for right-handed pitcher Ricardo Rodriguez.
A 24-year-old reliever, Rodriguez will be in the Minor League camp for Spring Training on the Double-A Wichita roster. He began his professional career in 1999 as an infielder in the Atlanta Braves system before being converted to a full-time pitcher following the 2002 season.
Rodriguez spent the 2005 season with high Class A Myrtle Beach, where he posted a 3-9 record and a 5.34 ERA in 33 games, including nine starts. The Venezuela native is 16-16 with a 4.21 ERA in 98 appearances during his Minor League career.
Diaz, who was designated for assignment last week, split much of last season with the Royals and Triple-A Omaha. In 34 games with Kansas City, he batted .271 with one homer and nine RBIs.
