Rays Acquire Reliever Jesse Crain

Crain has posted an unbelievable 0.74 ERA this year.

Relief pitcher Jesse Crain has been lights-out this season for the Chicago White Sox, making him one of the most coveted relief pitchers leading up to the Trade Deadline on Wednesday. Today, a deal seemed imminent as the day continued to progress. Then, the Tampa Bay Rays acquired the relief pitcher, who has been lights-out this season. In return, the White Sox get a player to be named later or cash, depending how much Crain pitches. 

Crain has been one of the top relievers this season, going 2-3 with a 0.74 ERA. In 38 games for Chicago, Crain pitched 36 2/3 innings, and only allowed three earned runs. His 4.18 SO/BB ratio is a career high so far, as Crain has never been so dominant, while having as much control. His 11.3 SO/9 ratio sits exactly where it was last year, however. Crain has appeared in 10 games with at least one runner already on base, and has inherited 20 runners, while only allowing 7 to score (35% of inherited runners score).

Crain also had something to say on being traded to Tampa. He tweeted:  

---

Can't wait to join @RaysBaseball, honored to be given this opportunity!!

— Jesse Crain (@JesseCrain) July 30, 2013

The Tampa Bay Rays seem to be a wonderful fit for Crain as well, as they only have two active relievers with an ERA below 3.20. They also would like to add a "younger" arm as well. Of their five regular relievers (35+ games), only one is below the age of 36 (Jake McGee). Crain is 31. 

I believe the Rays acquired a top-notch reliever for not an outrageous price. Crain can come in, and shut down the opponent consistently. When you do that, you will get a good job. Now, Crain gets a chance to pitch for a team trying to win the American League East.