Paul Clemens added to the 40 man roster and Pendleton re-signed

The Astros have announced that Paul Clemens has been added to the 40 man roster. This protects him from the rule-5 draft that will take place at next month’s winter meetings. Clemens was acquired in the Bourn trade this past season. His electric fastball surely made him attractive to Ed Wade as negotiations were ongoing with the Frank Wren. As noted by Greg, this past Monday, Clemens is very intriguing prospect and someone Stros’ fans will probably see sometime this season. When Wandy is dealt, Clemens will be a candidate for a spot in the rotation coming out of spring training and considering his makeup and other transactions that might happen soon, he could be considered a favorite come February.

Clemens might be in direct competition with Lance Pendleton, who was signed to a minor league contract. The Houston native was with the squad last season after coming over from the Yankees late in the year. He was also chosen in the rule 5 draft last season but after a rough spring, was returned to New York. Both Clemens and Pendleton provide some competition as the rotation continues to evolve. We might at least be spared from having to see the Brian Moehler and Nelson Figueroa types from starting every fifth day.