New York Mets' K-Rod Acquired by Milwaukee Brewers in Big Move at Trade Deadline

According to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman, the New York Mets have traded closer Francisco Rodriguez and cash to the Milwaukee Brewers for two players to be named later. 

The addition of Rodriguez adds another live arm to Milwaukee's bullpen, which already features John Axford and LaTroy Hawkins. This trade furthers the notion that the Brewers are putting all of their chips on the table to try and win now, in what is potentially Prince Fielder's last year as a Brewer. 

It hasn't been clarified whether Rodriguez will serve as the Brewers' setup man or closer. Either way, the combination of Axford and Rodriguez will provide Milwaukee with a dynamic eighth and ninth inning tandem. 

In 42 appearances with the Mets this season, Rodriguez is 2-2 with a 3.16 ERA and 23 saves. 

The 29-year-old Rodriguez has a contract clause that guarantees him $17.5 million for the 2012 season if he finishes 55 games. Thus far, Rodriguez has finished 34 games. However, according to Tim Kurkjian, Milwaukee won't allow him to reach 55 games finished. 

Axford, the Brewers' closer, has converted 23 save opportunities while posting a 2.83 ERA this season. 

At 49-43, Milwaukee is tied with the St. Louis Cardinals for first place in the NL Central. The last time the Brewers reached the postseason was in 2008 when CC Sabathia led Milwaukee to a wild-card berth by going 11-2 with a 1.65 ERA in the second half of the regular season.