Marlins trade reliever Matt Lindstrom to Astros

[December 10, 2009]  INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- The Florida Marlins have traded hard-throwing reliever Matt Lindstrom to the Houston Astros.

The Astros got two low-level minor leaguers and a player to be named in Wednesday's deal.

Lindstrom went 2-1 with 15 saves and a 5.89 ERA in 54 games for Florida last season. The 29-year-old righty throws a fastball that can reach 100 mph.

Houston needed late-inning relief help after closer Jose Valverde and setup man LaTroy Hawkins filed for free agency. Hawkins agreed to a contract with Milwaukee earlier in the day, subject to completion of final details.

Lindstrom was one of 11 players eligible for salary arbitration on the cost-conscious Marlins -- most of any team in the majors.

Florida got right-hander Robert Bono and infielder Luis Bryan.

[Associated Press]

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