The Milwaukee Brewers have acquired left-handed pitcher Will Smith from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for outfielder Norichika Aoki.
Smith is a 24-year-old left hander who is 8-10 with a 4.76 ERA in 35 games (17 starts) over the past two seasons. As a starter, Smith is 6-10 with a 5.48 ERA. He’s 2-0 as a reliever with a 2.45 ERA.
Aoki, who turns 32 on January 5, hit .287 with 18 HR, 87 RBI and 50 stolen bases in 306 games during his two seasons with the Brewers.
Aoki’s departure opens up right field, presumably for Ryan Braun. General Manager Doug Melvin said they’ve already discussed the possibility of a move with Braun, as they try to open up left field for Khris Davis. Davis came on strong last season after Braun was suspended for the final 65 games.
Here’s video of Will Smith in a game for the Royals earlier this season from MLB.com.
