Jose Molina Traded To Yankees

The Angels traded catcher Jose Molina to the New York Yankees today for minor league pitcher Jeff Kennard.

Kennard is a 25-year old, (not 23 as some news sources are reporting source) righthanded relief pitcher who was currently at AA Trenton. He had a record of 1-4 with a 2.73 era. Kennard has 6 saves this season although he is usually used as a setup man or middle reliever.

Last season with class A Tampa, Kennard went 7-3 with a 3.40 era.

Kennard was originally drafted by the Yankees in the 40th round of the 2000 draft out of Rend Lake College in Ina, Illinois.

The departure of Molina leaves the Angels with just five players left from their 2002 Championship team - Garret Anderson, Chone Figgins, John Lackey, Scot Shields and Francisco Rodriguez.

Molina's departure also solidifies Jeff Mathis' spot in the big leagues. Mathis will serve as the primary back up to Mike Napoli. Mathis was called up July 3rd when Napoli was placed on the 15-day DL and has hit .154 (2-for-13) since then.

I don't understand this trade unless the Angels are planning on trading for another catcher (Mike Piazza?) in the coming week.