Rangers acquire Tommy Hottovy from Royals

The Texas Rangers have acquired left hander Tommy Hottovy from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for a player to be named later and cash considerations, according to an announcement from the team's Executive Vice President of Communications John Blake.

The 31-year-old Hottovy, who was drafted in the fourth round of the 2004 MLB Draft by the Boston Red Sox, pitched in nine games for the Royals in 2012. In 9⅓ innings, Hottovy posted a 2.89 ERA, 11 hits, five walks and six strikeouts. He spent most of the season at Triple-A Omaha, where he went 2-2 with a 2.52 ERA and a 1.160 WHIP in 50 innings of work.

The Rangers have several open spots in their bullpen next season, and it's likely that Hottovy will compete with a slew of relievers brought into spring training to sort out situational roles.

Wednesday's transaction means that 35 spots are filled on the Rangers' 40-man roster.