Blue Jays acquire C Erik Kratz and LHP Rob Rasmussen
The TORONTO BLUE JAYS have traded RHP BRAD LINCOLN to the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for C ERIK KRATZ and LHP ROB RASMUSSEN.
KRATZ, 33, appeared in 68 games for the Phillies last season posting a .213 batting average with nine home runs and 26 RBI. The 6-4, 255lb. right-hand hitter has a career average of .220 with 18 home runs and 53 RBI over four seasons with Philadelphia (2011-2013) and Pittsburgh (2010). The Telford, Pennsylvania native was originally drafted by the Blue Jays in the 29th round of the 2002 First Year Player Draft.
RASMUSSEN, 24, combined to post a 3-11 record with a 4.11 ERA in 28 games, 24 starts between Los Angeles Dodgers affiliates Albuquerque of the Pacific Coast League (AAA) and Chattanooga of the Southern League (AA). The 5-9, 160lb. left-handed pitcher struck out 113 batters in 135.2 innings pitched last season. On August 31st he was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for IF Michael Young.
LINCOLN, 28, appeared in 22 games for Toronto in 2013 and was 1-2 with a 3.98 ERA. The 6-0, 225 lb. right-hander has a career record of 9-11 with one save and a 4.66 ERA over 97 games, 22 starts for Toronto (2012-2013) and Pittsburgh (2010-2012).