TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwanese right-hander Teng Kai-wei (鄧愷威) has been traded from the San Francisco Giants to the Houston Astros, where he is expected to bolster pitching depth as a long reliever.
The New York Times reported Friday that the Astros traded minor League catcher Jancel Villarroel to the Giants in exchange for Teng. To make room on the 40-man roster, Houston designated pitcher J.P. France for assignment.
Major League Baseball's website reported that the Giants confirmed the trade. It said that in addition to Villarroel, the team also received international bonus pool money.
Teng will prepare as a starting pitcher during spring training but his likely path to the MLB roster will be as a long reliever. The Astros are expected to use a six-man rotation at the start of the season, increasing the need for pitchers who can handle extended innings.
Teng has appeared in the MLB over the past two seasons, making 12 appearances with a combined ERA of 7.30, indicating he has struggled on the mound.
