Tue, Jan 9, 2007 at 4:00pm

REDS DEAL FOR INFIELD DEPTH

The Cincinnati Reds acquired infielder Jeff Keppinger from the Kansas City Royals for minor-league pitcher Russ Haltiwanger.

What does it give the Cincinnati Reds
Needing a solid secondary utility infielder to back up Juan Castro, Keppinger comes with a shot at filling that role. Now 26, his big-league experience is limited, but his steady singles bat and defense could earn him a role this spring.

What does it give the Kansas City Royals
Haltiwanger is a relatively minor prospect coming off his first pro season in the low minors. Just 22, he has some decent stuff but needs to work on his command in order to have a shot at making a big-league staff in a few years.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Kansas City Royals

Russ Haltiwanger P

Cincinnati Reds

Jeff Keppinger IF