The Cole Hamels trade includes Eddie Butler

There had been rumors that the Cole Hamels trade would involve a major-league player, and we learned Friday morning that was true:

Eddie Butler was acquired from the Rockies Feburary 1, 2017 for James Farris and some international bonus money. He’s been up and down from Iowa to the Cubs and also spent some time on the disabled list in his tenure in Chicago. He had some success, most notably his seven shutout innings against the Marlins in the 17-inning game March 30 of this year.

Overall as a Cub, Butler posted a 3.98 ERA and 1.396 WHIP in 21 appearances (11 starts) in 2017 and 2018. He could wind up in the Rangers’ rotation, replacing Hamels.

The inclusion of Butler in this trade means that no additional move will be necessary on the 40-man roster, as Hamels will take Butler’s place on both the 25-man and 40-man rosters. The player to be named later will likely be named in the offseason, or some cash will be exchanged.

Since Butler was pitching in relief and Hamels will be a starter, a decision will have to be made regarding the place of either Tyler Chatwood or Mike Montgomery in the rotation. Montgomery goes Friday night against the Cardinals; Chatwood wouldn’t start again until at least next Wednesday in Pittsburgh.