MLB trade news: New York Yankees acquire Baltimore Orioles closer Zach Britton
THE YANKEES have acquired closer Zach Britton from the Baltimore Orioles.
The deal sees right-handers Dillon Tate and Cody Carroll, and Triple-A left-hander Josh Rogers head the other way.
It's the first time the division rivals have made an in-season trade since 1989, when the New York side acquired right-hander John Habyan in exchange for outfielder Stan Jefferson.
Britton, who returned from an Achilles injury earlier this season, joins a bullpen already full of pitchers with extensive closing experience.
And following his trade, the All-Star took to social media to reflect on his time with the Orioles.
“12 years went by pretty fast,” Britton wrote on Twitter.
I’m sad to leave those memories behind but beyond grateful that I had the opportunity to be an Oriole for this long
“I remember my first day in the Orioles organization [sic], wide eyed and anxious to pursue my childhood dream.
“Through Bluefield, Aberdeen, Delmarva, Frederick, Bowie, Norfolk, and ultimately Baltimore.
“I’ve met people that forever impacted me as a player and a person.
“I’m sad to leave those memories behind but beyond grateful that I had the opportunity to be an Oriole for this long.
“Birdland - thank you for your support throughout my entire career, through the ups and downs you were always there.
“I SALUTE YOU!”