HOUSTON, TX – The Houston Astros have announced the acquisition of minor league prospect right-handed pitcher Matthew Linskey from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for infielder Grae Kessinger. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager Dana Brown.
About Matthew Linskey:
- Age: 22
- 2024 Season: Appeared in 22 games across three levels in the Diamondbacks minor league system, recording a 1-1 record with a 2.78 ERA (10 ER/32.1 IP). Linskey also struck out 51 batters, held opponents to a .180 batting average, and achieved a 14.2 SO/9 IP in 32.1 innings pitched.
- Teams: Spent the majority of the season with Class A Visalia (13 games), also making appearances with Class A Hillsboro (6 games).
- Drafted: Linskey, a native of Humble, TX, was drafted out of Rice University in the 16th round of the 2023 draft.
About Grae Kessinger:
- Age: 27
- Career: Designated for assignment by the Astros on December 23. Played in 23 games for the Astros in 2024 and 49 career games with Houston over the last two seasons (2023-24).
- Drafted: Originally selected by the Astros in the second round of the 2019 draft.
This trade highlights the Astros’ focus on bolstering their pitching prospects while the Diamondbacks gain a versatile infielder in Kessinger.
