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MLB
Philadelphia

Phillies acquire Michael Young from Texas Rangers

Bob Nightengale, USA TODAY Sports
  • Michael Young is the new Phillies third baseman

The Philadelphia Phillies acquired seven-time All-Star infielder Michael Young from the Texas Rangers on Saturday after Young waived his no-trade clause, two persons directly involved in the negotiations told USA TODAY Sports.

Michael Young will be the Phillies' third baseman, a position where he has played 65 games over the last two seasons.

The persons were not permitted to speak publicly until the trade is officially announced, which is expected to be this afternoon.

The Rangers agreed to pay about $10 million of Young's $16 million salary, according to one Rangers official. They will receive reliever Josh Lindblom and minor league pitcher Lisalverto Bonilla.

Young, who deliberated for days before accepting the deal, agreed to join Philadelphia when he was promised to be the everyday third baseman while also receiving $1.2 million in benefits, a person with direct knowledge said. Young also will receive a full no-trade clause. Young, whose contract expires after the 2013 season, did not ask for an extension.

Young, 36, who has spent his 12-year major league career with Texas, is the Rangers' all-time hits leader. He also has played in the most games in Rangers history.

The Phillies have used the trade market to fill holes in center field and third base at a relatively cheap cost. They dealt for Minnesota Twins center fielder Ben Revere, who should make about $550,000 in 2013. Their 2012 center fielder and third baseman (Shane Victorino and Placido Polanco) made a combined $16 million.

Young, who also could be used as a backup at second base, first base and shortstop, was used primarily as the Rangers DH this past season. He had his worst offensive year since .2002, hitting .277 with eight homers and 67 RBI.

Lindblom, 25, was 3-5 with a 3.55 ERA in 74 games last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Phillies. Bonilla, 22, was 2-1 with a 1.64 ERA in 21 relief appearances for Class AA Reading (Pa.).

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