ROYALS ADD FRASOR TO THEIR STRONG 'PEN
The Kansas City Royals acquired pitcher Jason Frasor from the Texas Rangers for pitcher Spencer Patton.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
The Royals already boast arguably the best bullpen in baseball this year, led by All-Star closer {P Greg Holland} and veterans {P Wade Davis}, {P Aaron Crow} and {P Scott Downs}--to name four. Frasor will add depth here as Kansas City attempts to chase down the Detroit Tigers this season. They clearly have a better bullpen situation than Detroit's, so perhaps they added Frasor to prevent him from going to Motown.
What does it give the Texas Rangers
Patton is a right-handed reliever who had been used as a closer at Triple-A Omaha this season. The 26-year old accumulated 14 saves so far this season, but will now move the Rangers' minor-league system (presumably to Triple-A Round Rock). This is a solid move by the Rangers because non-contending teams don't need veteran middle relievers, even solid ones such as Frasor. Patton may turn into a decent option next year.
Fantasy impact
Frasor's fantasy value remains the same (non-existent) as long as he's used in middle relief, which he will be in KC. Patton may need to be on the radar now that he's with Texas, a team that has had trouble locking down the closer role for the long term. They've had {P Neftali Feliz}, {P Joe Nathan} and now {P Joakim Soria} the last few years, but the latter may soon be dealt as well. Keep an eye on Patton.
