The Cincinnati Reds plugged a hole behind the plate, acquiring Ramon Hernandez from the Baltimore Orioles for frustrated utilityman Ryan Freel and two minor leaguers Tuesday.
The rebuilding Orioles also receive infield prospects Justin Turner and Brandon Waring. As part of the deal, Baltimore will give Cincinnati cash to offset part of Hernandez’s contract. He is owed $8.5 million next year.
The 32-year-old Hernandez batted .257 with 15 home runs and 65 RBIs last season in 133 games for Baltimore, making 119 starts at catcher. He hit .285 after the All-Star break.
The Orioles are ready to bring catching prospect Matt Wieters to the majors and knew Hernandez wouldn’t want a part-time role.
The 32-year-old Freel leaves Cincinnati in frustration. He was limited to only 48 games and 26 starts in 2008 because of a torn tendon in his right hamstring that required surgery July 23. He missed the final 103 games of the season and batted .298 with 10 RBIs. A .272 career hitter, Freel is known for his hustling, all-out play. He has played all three outfield positions during his seven-year career, in addition to third base and second base.