Reports: Zack Greinke Traded to Milwaukee Brewers for Escobar, Cain

The consistent losing in Kansas City took its toll on pitcher Zack Greinke who eventually demanded a trade from the Royals. Greinke was so serious about playing elsewhere he fired his agent on Friday, helping to ensure a deal would get done. Now, according to a fan blog on the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Web site, Greinke has been traded to the Brewers.

Jim Breen says the Brewers and Royals have reached a preliminary agreement that sends Greinke to Milwaukee for shortstop Alcides Escobar, outfielder Lorenzo Cain, and pitching prospect Jeremy Jeffress. He also says the Royals are throwing in Yuniesky Betacourt and cash as part of the deal. On Milwaukee’s Andrew Wagner says pitcher Jake Odorizzi is also heading to Kansas City as part of the trade.

No other reporters have been able to confirm the trade, but it wouldn’t be the first time the Brewers came out of nowhere to acquire a pitcher with little reporting surrounding the move. Tread cautiously until there’s official confirmation of the news, but recognize Zack Greinke will likely be traded and that Milwaukee is one of the candidates.

If the Brewers indeed have added Zack Greinke, their rotation has undergone the biggest improvement this offseason than any other team. Greinke, Shaun Marcum, and Yovani Gallardo is a pretty healthy 1-2-3 combination and it would make Milwaukee a legit contender in the NL Central.