Astros Swap Wheels For Wiggy, Ensberg’s Exit
Jul 29th, 2007 by Scott Hebert
Shortly after Saturday’s 3-1 victory over the San Diego Padres, the Houston Astros announced they were sending RP Dan Wheeler to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in exchange for 3B Ty Wigginton.
The move shores up the third base position for the next few years, as Wigginton is under team control through the 2009 season. This is in sharp contrast to the other three players that have manned the hot corner this season: Morgan Ensberg, Mike Lamb, and Mark Loretta.
Ensberg, meanwhile, was designated for assignment Sunday morning. The Astros have 10 days to trade, release, or demote him. Tim Purpura claims demotion isn’t likely, so look for the Astros to trade Ensberg before the deadline. It seems unlikely the team could get anything useful for the struggling third sacker, but it beats the alternative. Personally, I think Mo still has something to offer a big league club. Although, I’m disappointed to see him leave, he’ll hopefully have more success in another environment.
This move also sheds some doubt on the possibility of Mike Lamb returning next season. Lamb will become a free agent, so it’s possible the Astros will deal him rather than risk losing him for nothing. The chance to play everyday could really bring out the best in Lamb.