Fernando Martinez traded to Yankees

The Astros have announced a minor league trade this evening. Fernando Martinez has been sent to the New York Yankees in exchange for RHP Charles Basford.

Martinez, who has been linked to the infamous Biogenesis clinic in Miami, was designated for assignment by the Astros earlier this season. After passing through waivers without being claimed, Fernando was sent to AAA Oklahoma City where he hit .219 with three homers and 21 RBIs in 28 games. Martinez, highly touted as a teenager, has yet to live up to his potential in the big leagues. A series of knee injuries led the Mets to give up on him and the Astros have now followed suit.

Basford, who turns 23 next month, posted a 5.18 ERA and a 1.685 WHIP in 18 relief appearances last year at Staten Island. Basford will stay in the New York Penn league for the time being — he has been assigned to Tri-City. Basford was selected by the Yankees in the 37th round of last year’s draft.

Fernando Martinez (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)