Royals sign Wandy Rodriguez to minor league deal

The Royals have signed left-handed starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez to a minor league deal, according to Robert Murray of Baseball Essential. Rodriguez appeared in 17 games with the Texas Rangers this season before being designated for assignment on July 29. The 36-year old made 15 starts and had a 6-4 record with a 4.90 ERA in 86 1/3 innings with a 4.30 FIP and 7.5 strikeouts per nine innings. Rodriguez gave up one run in seven innings against the Royals in a 4-2 Rangers win back on June 6.

Rodriguez is an eleven-year veteran with the Astros, Pirates, and Rangers. His best season came in 2009 when he was 14-13 with a 3.02 ERA in 205 2/3 innings for Houston. Overall he has 97 wins and a 4.02 career ERA. Rodriguez has been mostly a starter in his career, and he will report to AAA Omaha for the Royals.

The move gives the Royals added veteran starting pitching depth with Joe Blanton being traded and Yohan Pino on the disabled list for Omaha.