CINCINNATI (AP) — The Reds strengthened the back end of their bullpen by acquiring closer Jonathan Broxton from Kansas City for a pair of minor leaguers.
Manager Dusty Baker said after Tuesday’s trade that Broxton will be a setup man for closer Aroldis Chapman and can finish games when the left-hander isn’t available.
Cincinnati was hoping to upgrade its starting lineup, but general manager Walt Jocketty said the asking price was too high for the NL Central leaders.
Broxton agreed to a $4 million, one-year deal before the season, giving the Royals a steady setup man for closer Joakim Soria. He moved into the closer’s role when Soria needed reconstructive elbow surgery in March and has saved 23 games in 27 chances.
The Reds expect him to arrive Wednesday.
