JAYS, RAYS DEAL FOR CASH
The Toronto Blue Jays acquired pitcher Chad Gaudin from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for catcher Kevin Cash.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
Though he's spent nearly two full seasons in the majors, Gaudin will only be 22 when the season begins and has a world of talent. Though he's a pretty small guy, he can crank the heat into the low 90s with movement and has a great slider. He's had some trouble against left-handed hitters during his young career, and that's one of the reasons the Jays will probably start him out at Triple-A in 2005. But he should soon work himself into the Jays' setup mix and could be their closer of the future.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
Cash had become a spare part in Toronto because of his inability to hit big-league pitching over the past couple of seasons. But it was just two years ago that he was ranked their No. 3 prospect by Baseball America. Though he's now 27, there may be time for him to up his offensive game, but for now he gives the Rays a very strong defensive backup catcher.
Fantasy impact
