Fernando Martinez has been claimed by the Houston Astros after being put on waivers following the Mets' addition of Scott Hairston and Ronny Cedeno, according to Adam Rubin and Enrique Rojas.
At just 23, Martinez has had enormous expectations as a supposed phenom but has had a couple disappointing seasons. Rob Neyer suggests that it's a quality move with little to lose for the Astros, and Brian McTaggart points out that the club will need to make room for Martinez on their 40-man roster:
- Twitter / @Enrique_Rojas1 - "Fernando Martinez será reclamado en breve por un equipo de División Central de Liga Nacional. #Mets #Otro"
- Twitter / @AdamRubinESPN - "Source: Fernando Martinez is an Astro"
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F-Mart to the Houston Astros - Mets Blog - ESPN New York
"The Mets needed to clear 40-man roster spots for the additions of Scott Hairston and Ronny Cedeno, and chose to put Martinez as well as left-hander Daniel Herrera on waivers. Because Martinez has an option remaining, he needs to remain on Houston's 40-man roster, but can be optioned to Triple-A in spring training if he does not make the major league club."
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Astros Claim Ex-Phenom Fernando Martínez From Mets - Baseball Nation
"But if Martínez can get completely healthy and if he can develop his batting eye as players often do, he might still become a useful major league player. And considering he was essentially free, the Astros would consider that a big win." -
Report: Astros get Martinez from Mets " Tag's Lines
The Astros would have to clear a spot on the 40-man roster to make room for Martinez.