Rutledge was traded to the Angels late Wednesday in exchange for reliever Jairo Diaz, Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post reports. Though he once seemed headed for a long-term starting role for the Rockies after a strong MLB debut in 2012, Rutledge failed to convince the team he was a viable middle infield option last season when he served as the primary replacement for the injured Troy Tulowitzki, batting .269 with four homers and two stolen bases across 342 plate appearances. With the Angels sending Howie Kendrick to the Dodgers in a separate deal Wednesday, it looks like Rutledge could be the leading candidate at the moment to take over second base duties with his new club. However, it wouldn't be surprising if the Angels brought in a more proven commodity in the spring to challenge Rutledge for the starting role, given his meager big league track record.