:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/5295953/gyi0060375435.0.jpg)
The Houston Astros acquired pitcher John Ely from the Los Angeles Dodgers for prospect Rob Rasmussen, adding to Houston's 40-man roster.
Ely made 25 appearances for the Dodgers from 2010-12, including 19 starts. The 26-year-old was drafted in the third round by the Chicago White Sox in 2007 and has spent most of his career in the minor leagues. Last season with Triple-A Albuquerque, the right-hander went 14-7, leading the Pacific Coast League in ERA (3.20) and WHIP (1.10), while ranking second in innings pitched (168 2/3).
Rasmussen landed in Houston as part of the Carlos Lee deal with the Miami Marlins on July 4. The 23-year-old went a combined 8-11 with a 4.25 ERA in 27 appearances for Single-A Jupiter and Double-A Corpus Christi this year.
The Astors are in rebuilding mode after another disappointing season in 2012. Houston finished in the cellar of the NL Central with a 55-107 record, making it one of two teams, along with the Chicago Cubs, to reach the century mark for losses.