Zack Greinke Reportedly Traded to Anaheim Angels in Exchange for Prospects

Zack Greinke has been traded to the Anaheim Angels in exchange for a package that includes Jean Segura, according to MLB's official Twitter account:

"

#Brewers acquire RHPs John Hellweg and Ariel Pena as well as SS Jean Segura from#Angels in exchange for RHP Zack Greinke. #tradedeadline

— MLB (@MLB) July 27, 2012"

MLBTradeRumors.com writer Mark Polishuk said the Milwaukee Brewers will receive two pitching prospects in addition to Segura, confirmed by the MLB account to be John Hellweg and Ariel Pena. Just 18 months ago, the Brewers sold the farm in order to acquire Greinke. However, things have changed immensely since then. Prince Fielder is currently wearing a Detroit Tigers uniform and the hopeful Brewers have dropped out of contention and back into rebuilding mode once again.

In 2012, Greinke is 9-3 with a 3.44 ERA in 21 games started. His 122 strikeouts to 28 walks will nicely replace the struggles of Ervin Santana.

Greinke is also coming off one of the best seasons of his career. In 2011, his first season with the Brewers, the right-hander recorded a 16-6 record and 3.83 ERA.

For the Angels, this is the perfect move at the perfect time, as they try to close the gap between themselves and the AL West-division-leading Texas Rangers. They’re also looking to hold onto the top wild-card position, as the surging Oakland Athletics have inched to within a half game of their lead.

With the addition of Greinke, the already-powerful Angels lineup has to be considered World Series favorites. The huge move doesn’t only bolster their rotation, but it closes the gap with the rival Texas Rangers at the same time.

According to ESPN, the Rangers were also reportedly in on the Greinke sweepstakes (and favorites) and will need to find an alternative before Tuesday’s trade deadline if they are to maintain pace with the improved Angels during the playoff push.

Follow me on Twitter @BigHoagowski