Fernando Rodriguez left Monday's Cactus League game against the Padres with right elbow tightness. The A's will hope that it turns out to be mild inflammation. Rodriguez, 28, posted a 5.37 ERA and 78/34 K/BB ratio in 70 1/3 innings last season with the Astros.

Athletics acquired RHP Fernando Rodriguez from the Astros in a five-player trade. Rodriguez holds a 4.89 ERA over 119 career appearances, but he's a hard-thrower that's struck out over a batter per inning. He'll work in a middle relief role for the A's.

Astros manager Brad Mills is concerned about Fernando Rodriguez after the reliever has showed diminished velocity in recent outings. Mills isn't worried that Rodriguez is hurt, and the reliever himself said he's fine physically. But, the manager thinks the former starter might be tiring out after a full season of relief work. Mills said he might use Rodriguez sparingly down the stretch with the bullpen reinforced by September call-ups.

Astros recalled RHP Fernando Rodriguez from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Rodriguez has registered a high quality 3.21 ERA and 20/5 K/BB ratio in 14 innings this season for the 'Stros and will return to his role in middle relief.

Fernando Rodriguez isn't expected to be in Triple-A long. The Astros didn't want to option Rodriguez, but they had to free up a roster spot for Brian Espisito, who will serve as the backup catcher while J.R. Towles nurses a cut on his chin. The owner of a 3.21 ERA and 20/5 K/BB ratio over 14 innings, Rodriguez could be back once his 10 days are up or possibly even sooner if someone suffers an injury. "We were in a bind," manager Brad Mills said. "Fernando was great. He understood the whole situation. and hopefully that can be resolved pretty shortly."

Astros optioned RHP Fernando Rodriguez to Triple-A Oklahoma City. He was cleared to make room for catcher Brian Esposito on the active roster. Rodriguez has an impressive 3.21 ERA and 20/5 K/BB ratio over 14 innings with the Astros this season, so he'll undoubtedly be back at some point soon.