Texas Rangers trade RHP Spencer Patton to the Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs and the Texas Rangers made a minor trade today with Rangers sending Spencer Patton to the Cubs for a player infielder Frandy Delarosa.  The trade comes as a little surprise because today has been filled with a flurry of transactions.  This is because clubs need to make moves to allow them to fill their 40 man roster.

Spencer Patton was originally drafted by the Kansas City Royals back in 2011 in the Amateur Draft.  He was acquired via trade by the Texas Rangers back in July of 2014.  Since then he bounced around some from Triple-A Round Rock to the majors.  With the Round Rock Express he had an 1.67 ERA over 26 games/27 IP with and WHIP of 1.111.  With the Rangers he posted a 9.00 ERA over 27 games/24 IP with a WHIP of 1.500.   While his ERA is high, it’s because of 2 bad games when he allowed 6 and 5 earned runs.  Most of the time he was able to come in pitch his one winning without giving up a run. In return the Texas Rangers received infielder Frandy Delarosa from the Chicago Cubs.   Before today I haven’t heard his name.  The Chicago Cubs must like him because they gave him nice sum of cash back in 2012 when he was just 16 years old.

Back during that time Baseball America had this to say about him.’

"“Frandy De La Rosa (6-foot-1, 180 pounds) does things that scouts like but also has a few question marks. De La Rosa reportedly has a smooth swing from both sides of the plate and can handle the bat equally from the left and right side. He possesses a simple, short swing with quick hands and has shown the ability to barrel ball up. De La Rosa is seen more as a line drive hitter right now and not much of a power threat.”- Chicago Cubs Online – Baseball America"

So far he’s only played in the rookie league and low A ball, but he’s still considered a top prospect.  Last season in the minors he batted .273/.315/ .367/ .682 with 20 doubles, 30 RBI and 11 stolen bases.

Watch: 2012 – International Prospect Frandy De La Rosa Report

Next: Craig Gentry DFA by the Oakland Athletics

De La Rosa is known for speed, good hands, but currently still lacks the consistency to play shortshop.  He’s mainly known as a good offensive middle infielder.  Luckily for him he’s only 19 and has plenty of time to refine his skills.  I’m guessing that what the Rangers see in him.  If I had to guess he’ll start the season with the High Desert Mavericks and might be moved up to the Frisco Rough Riders during the 2016 season.