CLEVELAND, OHIO – JUNE 13: Kendall Graveman #49 of the Seattle Mariners pitches during a game against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field on June 13, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
New Astros pitcher Kendall Graveman fought back tears discussing his recent trade.
Kendall Graveman was only a Seattle Mariner for a year and a half, but he was nearly in tears after being traded to the Houston Astros. The appears the move shocked MLB fans and players alike, particularly as the two teams are in the middle of three-game series.
“It’s not my first time being traded, but first time in a season to be traded,” Graveman told the media during an on-field scrum in Houston. “I understand the business of this game, I understand how things can happen quickly, and I was a little bit shocked, to be honest.”
Mariners-Astros trade bittersweet for Graveman
While Graveman was visibly upset at being traded away from a Mariners squad rebuilding its winning culture. However, the pitcher quickly expressed his appreciation for his new home.
“I’m excited to put on this jersey,” Graveman said. “I’ve competed against this team for a long time. I know the talent that’s on this team.”
When asked if it was disappointing to be traded or if he feels like he’s in a great situation, Graveman walked down the middle.
“It’s a little bit of both,” he said. “I like to build something from the ground up and see it flourish. I’ve invested a lot of time over the last year and a half to help Seattle get back to winning baseball. It’s tough.”
Graveman went on to mention Mariners teammates and clubhouse staff. Again, his response also included gratitude for joining a new team that already has a winning team and a winning culture. The Astros currently lead the AL West with a 61-40 record. The Mariners are six games back in third place in the division at 55-46.