Phillies trade Michael Schwimer to Blue Jays for Art Charles

Although most people were caught up in the games going on today, the Philadelphia Phillies and the Toronto Blue Jays were scheming. The two teams pulled off a minor trade this afternoon. Philadelphia is sending Michael Schwimer to the Toronto Blue Jays for Art Charles.

Todd Zolecki of MLB.com confirmed the deal. Philadelphia is losing out on a pitcher who has Major League experience, but they are getting a young first baseman in return.

The deal should be finalized today at some point, but neither player will likely have to pass physicals to complete the trade. As we found out with Didi Gregorius, trades involving minor league players do not always require physicals.

Schwimer is a 27-year old right-handed pitcher. He has two Major League seasons under his belt. In total, Schwimer has made 47 appearances with the Phillies. He has struggled in his role as a Major League reliever. In his career, Schwimer has posted a 4.62 ERA.

Charles may have some promise. The Phillies know they will eventually need some help at first base. Ryan Howard's injury concerns are great enough to prompt early action. Charles is still a long way from making a Major League roster, but he is only 22 years old.

The first baseman was drafted three times before eventually signing. He was finally drafted in the 20th round in 2010 and signed with the Blue Jays. In three minor league seasons, Charles has hit .239/.358/.482.

Neither player in this deal is expected to become a major contributor, but we've been surprised in the past.