The Texas Rangers wanted bullpen help. They have talked to the San Diego Padres about closer Heath Bell. However, with the Rangers and Padres not being able to agree to a deal, Texas moved on. As it turned out, they may have gotten a better player when the Rangers traded for Koji Uehara.
While not many fans know of Koji Uehara, he has been fantastic this season for the Baltimore Orioles. The 36-year-old native of Japan has a 1.72 ERA and a 0.70 WHIP. In 47 innings, he has 62 strikeouts while only giving up 25 hits. You won’t find many relievers in all of baseball with better numbers.
In return, the Orioles got two good prospects: Tommy Hunter and Chris Davis. Last year, Tommy Hunter was 13-4 with a 3.73 ERA. This year, he was hurt at the beginning of the season and has had to work his way back via the bullpen. That said, he has still been effective — 2.93 ERA in eight appearances.
Chris Davis has been very good in the minor leagues but has struggled on the big stage. In 878 career at-bats, the left-handed hitter has a .248 batting average with 42 homers and 124 RBIs. Even worse, he has 301 strikeouts and an on-base percentage of .300.
Tommy Hunter will likely step into the starting rotation for the Orioles. Chris Davis will find at-bats at first base and third base.
As for the Rangers, Koji Uehara will instantly become the setup man. And down the road, his numbers suggest he may be the best option at closer for the Rangers.
Koji Uehara - Texas Rangers (Image: TSN.ca)
Post from: EveryJoe
Kori Ellis 31 Jul, 2011--
Source: http://everyjoe.com/sports/rangers-trade-for-koji-uehara/
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