Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 8:30pm

DODGERS BOOST BULLPEN: SHERRILL

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired relief pitcher George Sherrill from the Baltimore Orioles for third baseman Josh Bell and pitcher Steve Johnson.

What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
The now former Orioles closer will certainly not take over as the Dodgers' closer with Jonathan Broxton in town, but he's a pretty good insurance policy. Barring anything unforeseen with Broxton, Sherrill and his deceptive delivery gives them a key setup man who's more experienced than their other setup options.

What does it give the Baltimore Orioles
Going nowhere for another season, the Orioles didn't need to hang on to their closer, so it was a good time to sell. This could open the door for Jim Johnson to pick up some saves. The acquisition of Bell, in particular, gives the O's a bit of a brighter future. Enjoying a nice season at Double-A, he's got good power at the hot corner with growing plate discipline and could be ready for The Show as early as next season. Baltimore native Steve Johnson is a young starter who may still be a year or two away from the majors but has plenty of upside as a mid-back-end strikeout pitcher.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Los Angeles Dodgers

George Sherrill P