The Dominican's time in Houston ended badly, accused of domestic violence against his wife in a parking lot. He was released and signed later in the 2003 season by Tampa Bay. Charges were later dropped.

Lugo has picked up the pieces well and has played with the Dodgers, Red Sox and Cardinals, winning a Worlds Championship in Boston in 2007. During his time in Houston, Lugo batted .268 with 28 homers over four seasons. For his career through 2009, he has hit .271 with 80 homers.

Lugo passed away from a heart attack on November 15, 2021, one day shy of his 46th birthday.