The Houston Astros announced today that the club has acquired left-handed pitcher Tyler Lumsden from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.  The announcement was made by General Manager Ed Wade.

Lumsden, 25, went 3-13 with a 7.21 ERA (86ER/107.1IP) in 28 games, including 18 starts, for Triple A Omaha in 2008. He is currently playing in the Puerto Rican Winter League for the Gigantes de Carolina and is 0-1 with a 9.64 ERA (10ER/9.1IP) in four games (three starts).

“Tyler’s numbers weren’t good this year, but our guys like his arm,” said Wade. “He’s a big, strong lefty, and he’s only 25 years old. He has remaining options, so we’ll get him into Kissimmee, evaluate him and give him a chance to compete. At the very least, Tyler provides us with some more young depth.”

In 95 minor league games (71 starts), Lumsden is 26-25 with a 4.89 ERA (231ER/425IP). Selected by the Chicago White Sox as a sandwich pick between the first and second rounds of the June 2004 draft, Lumsden was acquired by the Royals along with Daniel Cortes in exchange for Mike MacDougal on July 24, 2006. He was designated for assignment by the Royals on November 20, 2008.