HICKS HEADED NORTH TO TORONTO
The Toronto Blue Jays acquired pitcher Jordan Hicks from the St. Louis Cardinals for pitchers Sem Robberse and Adam Kloffenstein.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
Hicks is a flame-throwing reliever who consistently throws over 100 m.p.h. He is exactly what the Blue Jays bullpen needs. His strikeout ability and closing experience will fit perfectly in late-game situations. He could become Toronto's closer while Jason Romano is on the injured list. As an added bonus, the Blues Jays kept Hicks away from the other AL East contenders.
What does it give the St. Louis Cardinals
Both Robberse and Kloffenstein have been pitching in Double-A ball this season. Robberse was the Blue Jays' No. 7 prospect (according to MLB.com) and posted a 4.06 ERA in 18 starts. Kloffenstein is a former third-round draft pick who registered a 3.24 ERA in 17 starts. The Cardinals certainly hope both pitchers can end up in their MLB rotation in the future.
Fantasy impact
Hicks had become the St.Louis closer in recent weeks, and he could fill that role until Romano comes back. Even with a healthy Romano, Hicks is a quality reliever to have on a fantasy team due to his high strikeouts–combined with his hold and save potential. Robberse and Kloffenstein offer no fantasy value at this time but both are keeper-league radar material.
