Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez Sent Back To Texas

Ivan Rodriguez is heading back to where it all started, coming home to the Texas Rangers.

The 14-time All-Star that started his career with Texas at age 19 was acquired in a trade Tuesday with the Houston Astros for minor league pitcher Matt Nevarez and two players to be named later.

“It’s been a long time,” said Rodriguez. “I’m glad that I’m back.”

At age 37, many think this could be Rodriguez’s final season in the big leagues, but Pudge begs to differ.

“No, no-no,” he said. “There’s still a lot in me, and I love what I do. Physically and mentally, I’m feeling great, and I could play two or three more years. That’s the way I feel.”

Rodriguez is one of the most popular players in Rangers history, winning 10 of his 13 Gold Gloves in Texas. He was part of the franchise’s only three playoff teams in 1996, 1998 and 1999, when he won the AL MVP award.