The Kansas City Royals today announced that they have traded minor league 24-year-old right-handed pitcher Angel Baez to the Astros for cash considerations.
#Royals announce that they've traded RHP Angel Baez to Houston for cash considerations. Baez pitched for NW Arkansas last year.
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) March 28, 2015
Baez was an international free agent that joined the Royals Dominican Summer League team in 2009. He worked his way through the Royals' Rookie and Single-A levels through 2010 to 2013. Baez pitched in the Arizona Fall League in 2013, posting a 7.82 ERA with a 1.82 WHIP in 12.2 innings pitched. Last season with the Double-A Northwest Arkansas Naturals, Baez had a record of 1-5 with a 4.65 ERA, 1.403 WHIP, 29 BB, 71 SO in 62 IP (35 appearances).
Baseball America Prospect Handbook ranked Baez 27th in the Royals' system:
Baez's fastball will vary from 88-98 mph depending on how well he's maintaining his delivery. His curveball and changeup both show flashes of being average, but they are inconsistent because of his control and delivery issues. After five years as a starter, Baez likely will move to the bullpen in 2014 to see if his control can improve.