Nationals trade Kintzler to Cubs
Brandon Kintzler is switching uniforms for the second consecutive deadline.
The Chicago Cubs acquired the right-hander from the Washington Nationals for minor-league right-hander John Romero.
The 33-year-old Kintzler hasn't been generating ground balls at his normal rate, and has subsequently suffered as a result. His 3.59 ERA and 3.44 FIP over 42 2/3 innings are a step down from his production over the past two seasons, primarily with the Minnesota Twins.
Kintzler was acquired by Washington as a rental last season. The Nats wound up re-signing the setup man this past offseason to a one-year, $5-million deal that includes a $10-million team option for 2019 and a $5-million buyout.
Romero, 23, posted a 3.27 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 57 strikeouts in 44 innings with Class-A Myrtle Beach.
HEADLINES
- Ohtani reaches 3 times in home debut as Dodgers rout Cardinals
- Burnes brilliant in Baltimore debut, allows 1 hit as the Orioles rout Angels
- Bet or Bail: Clippers' downfall, Jalen Green's surging Rockets
- Armstead felt 'disrespected' by 49ers' offer before joining Jaguars
- Manfred hopes Ohtani investigation will be short