LUIS GARCIA GOES TO BOSTON
The Boston Red Sox acquired pitcher Luis García from the Los Angeles Angels for first baseman Niko Kavadas, infielder Matthew Lugo and pitchers Ryan Zeferjahn and Yeferson Vargas.
What does it give the Boston Red Sox
Veteran reliever Garcia will improve Boston's bullpen late in games down the stretch. He is having another solid season and remains a trustworthy high-leverage arm (even at age 37). After picking up four saves and 11 holds for the Angels, he figures to work in a similar late-inning role with the Red Sox. He may even take over as a primary setup man, since both Chris Martin and Justin Slaten are currently on the injured list.
What does it give the Los Angeles Angels
The Angels really restocked their minor-league depth with this trade, bringing in two hitters and two pitchers. Of the group, Lugo is probably the most notable prospect. The 23-year-old is playing at Triple-A and has both power and speed potential. He and the others will now get to work in the Angels organization. Realistically if any of them make an impact in MLB, trading a veteran reliever on an expiring contract will look great for LA.
Fantasy impact
While Garcia is unlikely to get many save opportunities in Boston, he should be in the mix for holds on a regular basis. He is not a big strikeout pitcher at this point in his career, which does limit his appeal in fantasy leagues. But now on a better Red Sox team, he may be of interest in deeper formats. Lugo and Kavadas are probably on the fantasy radar now in many formats, while Zeferjahn and Vargas might take a little longer to get there.
