Houston Astros right-handed starting pitcher Scott Feldman cleared revocable trade waivers today, as right-handed closer Chad Qualls was claimed off revoacable waivers by an unknown team, sources tell Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. Since Feldman cleared waivers, the team can trade him to any other team within the next six days. In Qualls' case, the Astros must either work out a trade for him or keep him.
Chad Qualls is only due to make about $3 million next season. Two teams that could very well claim the 36-year-old off waivers are the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers, who are looking heavily for any bullpen help. Qualls has reinvented himself in Houston, recording 14 saves over 49 appearances out of the bullpen, while registering a 3.07 ERA. However, the Astros would reportedly have to be overwhelmed by an offer to even think about shipping him out, as they would want a prospect or two from a contender.
Scott Feldman, who turns 32 in the offseason, could be a viable option for a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers or the Los Angeles Angels. Feldman is due to make $18 million over the next two years, as he signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Astros in the offseason. It would be likely that, in order to get any deal done, Houston would have to send cash considerations along with Feldman. He is 7-9 with a 4.37 ERA on the season.