Valverde To Stay With Astros

AP – Astros closer Jose Valverde won’t be traded this season because he was claimed on waivers and pulled back earlier this month, one major league source told FOXSports.com.

Valverde’s status became the subject of some intrigue earlier this week, after Houston traded catcher Ivan Rodriguez to the Rangers. It seemed possible that Valverde, a free agent after this season, could be dealt, too. But the fact that he was blocked on trade waivers eliminates that possibility.

Technically, it’s possible that Valverde could switch teams before the regular season is over, if the team were to place him on irrevocable waivers next month. But that is highly unlikely. The only benefit to Houston in doing so would be if the team wanted to free itself from the remaining financial obligations on Valverde’s contract. And doing so would prevent the Astros from receiving draft-pick compensation if Valverde departs as a free agent this winter.

Valverde is earning $8 million this season, of which roughly $1.5 million has yet to be paid.