Astros Acquire John Ely From Dodgers for Rob Rasmussen

Houston will bring more  than new uniforms to the American League

The Houston Astros continued retooling their roster in preparation for their move to the American League West.

Today the Astros announced they have acquired right-handed pitcher John Ely from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for minor league left-handed pitcher Rob Rasmussen.

Although not likely to be considered big splash moves, the Astros have been among baseball’s most active teams in regard to transactions since the middle of last summer.

Earlier this week used in signed first baseman/DH Carlos Pena to a one-year deal, then signed former Milwaukee Brewers  reliever Jose Veras to a one-year deal worth $2 million to shore up the Astros bullpen.

On July 31, they traded outfielder Michael Bourn to Atlanta for minor league pitchers Brett Oberholtzer, Paul Clemens, and Juan Abreu; and outfielder Jordan Schafer.

Ely was immediately placed on the Houston’s 40 man roster, with a corresponding move to come later.

Ely, 26, spent the majority of his 2012 season with Triple-A Albuquerque, posting a 14-7 record with a 3.20 ERA in 27 starts.

Rasmussen, 23, combined to post an 8-11 record and 4.25 ERA in 27 games (26 starts) for Single-A Jupiter and Double-A Corpus Christi last season.

Rasmussen was acquired by the Astros on July 4 in the Carlos Lee trade, that also included Matt Dominguez coming to Houston.