Brewers acquire Michael Blazek from Cardinals

The Milwaukee Brewers have acquired right-handed pitcher Michael Blazek from the St. Louis Cardinals as the player to be named later in Friday's trade for John Axford, according to Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. Blazek's involvement in the deal completes the trade, which amounts to a one-for-one Axford-for-Blazek swap.

Blazek, 24, was the Cardinals' 35th round pick in the 2007 draft, and has risen quickly through the team's system. He has been excellent in the minors this season, posting a 1-2 record and 1.97 ERA, 10.2 K/9 and 5.1 BB/9 in 45.2 innings of work split between Double-A Springfield and Triple-A Memphis.

The reliever was rewarded with a major league promotion earlier in the season, but has struggled at the major league level with St. Louis. In 10.1 relief innings over eleven appearances in the majors this season, Blazek has posted a 6.97 ERA and 8.7 BB/9, signifying that he may have some control issues to work out before he becomes a full-time major league reliever. Blazek will report to the Brewers' major league squad immediately.

While Blazek is by no means a top prospect, he will provide a solid bullpen option for the Brewers, who are looking to rebuild after a disappointing season. He is under control through the 2019 season, and has two remaining option years after making his major league debut this season.