Ty Wigginton Leaves Colorado Rockies Via Trade To Philadelphia Phillies

The Colorado Rockies announced on Sunday evening that third baseman Ty Wigginton was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies for a player to be named later or cash. This move was expected with the rise of top prospect Nolan Arenado, who is being considered for the third base spot during spring training.

Wigginton signed a two-year deal that was worth $8 million in Dec. 2010, but the ensuing results for the 2011 season left much to be desired. He hit just .242/.315/.416 in 401 at-bats while playing first base, third base and the outfield. However, Wigginton rarely came up in key situations and put up just a 0.3 Wins Above Replacement (FWAR).

Wigginton did have an option for 2013 on his contract, which, if exercised, will result in the Rockies getting a player in return or cash. Otherwise, the Rockies must pay his half of a million buyout. For his 2012 salary, the Rockies are paying just half of the $4 million he was due, reports Troy Renck of the Denver Post.

With Wigginton gone, the Rockies now have Arenado, Ian Stewart and Chris Nelson as players competing for the spot in spring training. Jordan Pacheco could also take over in the utility role that Wigginton played last season, as Renck also suggests.

For more on this trade, visit Rockies blog Purple Row and Phillies blog The Good Phight.