The Florida Marlins today announced that they have acquired right-handed reliever Jorge Julio and cash from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for right-handed pitcher Yusmeiro Petit. The announcement was made by Marlins Executive Vice President and General Manager Larry Beinfest.

“This move to acquire Jorge Julio helps solidify the back end of our bullpen as he assumes the role of closer,” said Marlins Manager Fredi Gonzalez. “With his experience and success, and the quality of arms we have in front of him, we now have a strong corps to finish out games.”

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced today that they have acquired right-handed hitting outfielder Brady Clark and cash considerations from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for right-handed pitcher Elmer Dessens, according to Dodger General Manager Ned Colletti.

“Brady is a very versatile outfielder who will add depth to our club,” said Colletti. “He’s shown that he can hit and that he can play all three outfield positions well. His character and work ethic will only add to the positive atmosphere in the clubhouse.”

The Kansas Royals have acquired shortstop Tony Pena Jr. from the Atlanta Braves for minor league right-handed pitcher Erik Cordier. To make room for Pena on the 40-man roster, the Royals placed reliever Joe Nelson on the 60-day Disabled List.

You can analyze this anyway you want, but it more or less spells the end for Angel Berroa.

I was fortunate enough to catch up with Royals GM Dayton Moore after the trade. “We’re thrilled to get Tony,” said Moore. “He’s an instinctive player with excellent defensive skills. He’s also come a long way with the bat.”

Dayton Moore was part of the Atlanta Braves team that helped scout and sign Tony Pena Jr. If anyone knows Pena, it’s Moore.

When I asked Dayton if they traded for Pena to be in the shortstop mix right now, he replied, “Definitely.” The fact that Pena is out of options has something to do with that. But Berroa’s play certainly has forced the Royals to look elsewhere.