Jason Hammel Traded to Colorado Rockies

The Tampa Bay Rays finished off their pitching situation Sunday by trading away Jason Hammel.

Hammel had been competing with Jeff Niemann for the fifth spot in the rotation, which is most likely going to be taken by David Price when he gets his call up.

Colorado in return for Hammel sent minor league pitcher Aneury Rodriguez to Tampa.

The Rockies rotation currently has semi-experienced pitchers Ubaldo Jimenez and Franklin Morales along with veterans Jason Marquis, Aaron Cook, and Jeff Francis.

However, with Marquis struggling to get his feet under him so far in Spring Training and Jeff Francis hitting the 15 day disabled list, the odds Hammel makes the rotation are higher in Colorado than they were in Tampa Bay.

Commenting on the move Hammel said, "I'm definitely appreciative of the opportunity they gave me—wish there was more. It seemed like I never really had a solidified spot, I was bouncing back between starting and bullpen. But it happens. This is part of the game, the business side and a great opportunity to go to the Rockies."

Analysis:

Tampa Bay

In Aneury Rodriguez, the Rays get a possible long term prospect, who at 21, has never played above Single-A Modesto for the Rockies. In his four minor league seasons, he has a 25-27 record, 4.82 ERA in 85 games all of which he started.

Colorado

Hammel brings to Colorado some experience, having been in both the rotation and bullpen during his tenure in Tampa. He's also out of minor league options, with that being the main reason the Rays were looking to trade him. In three seasons in the majors he has a 7-15 record, 5.90 ERA in 73 games, 28 of which he started.