MLB Trade: Pittsburgh Pirates acquire John Axford from Indians

The Pittsburgh Pirates failed to make any major moves before the non-waiver deadline back at the end of July, but it’s a case of better late than never when making trades that could come in handy for a postseason run.

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In an effort to get some bullpen help, the Pirates have gone out and acquired closer John Axford from the Cleveland Indians. The move was made after the Pirates failed to acquire relief help at the deadline, which was something that the team indeed explored in the 11th hour of being able to do so.

Ken Rosenthal from FOX Sports had the first report of the trade.

There were rumors that the Pirates were in on Andrew Miller from the Boston Red Sox before the trade deadline passed, but Miller was ultimately dealt to the Baltimore Orioles instead. With Axford, the Pirates are getting an arm that is at times shaky but more often than not can be a dependable option out of the bullpen, which is exactly what the Bucs need down the stretch of a tight race in the National League.

Be sure to stay glued to FanSided’s MLB Rumors page to stay up to date with the latest action and rumbling from the baseball hot stove this trade season.