St. Louis Cardinals Send David Freese to Angels in Four Player Trade

St. Louis Cardinals trade rumorsThe St. Louis Cardinals sent former World Series MVP third baseman David Freese and pitcher Fernando Salas to the Los Angeles Angels for center fielder Peter Bourjos and outfielder Randal Grichuk.

Freese, who was an All-Star in 2012 and was named the World Series MVP in 2011, hit .262 with nine home runs, 60 RBI and a .721 OPS in 138 games this past season and had spent his entire five-year career with the Cardinals.

Bourjos, in his fourth season, only played in 55 games because of a wrist fracture and hit .274 with three home runs and 12 RBI. Salas had an 0-3 record with a 4.50 ERA in 28 innings last season.

A career .251 hitter with speed, Bourjos stole 41 bases in 54 attempts and was among AL leaders with 11 triples, 17 bunt hits and 38 infield hits in 2011.

Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said. “We wish both David and Fernando the best and thank them for their contributions – especially the many memorable moments they provided during the 2011 championship season.”

The Angels  were in the market for a third baseman this off-season after trading Alberto Callaspo to the Oakland A’s in July. Freese is arbitration eligible this offseason and is under club control thru 2015.