Kolby Allard recalled, and two minor trades

Texas Rangers transactions: Kolby Allard, the lefthanded pitcher acquired from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for Chris Martin at the trade deadline, has been officially recalled from AAA Nashville, the Rangers announced today. He is tonight’s starting pitcher. He is already on the 40 man roster, and the Rangers optioned Scott Heineman to AAA Nashville on Wednesday, so there was no need for a corresponding roster move today.

Allard will likely get the opportunity to stick around in the rotation if he can keep his head above water today. He’s replacing Adrian Sampson, who is in the bullpen as a long man. At some point between now and the end of the season, I expect Brock Burke and Joe Palumbo to also move up and start a few games.

In addition, the Rangers have made a couple of very minor trades the past few days. Catcher Adam Moore, who had been at AAA Nashville this season, was sent to Kansas City for cas considerations. And lefthanded pitcher Miguel del Pozo, who also spent this season at AAA Nashville, was traded today to the Anaheim Angels for cash considerations.