Tom Candiotti simply got too expensive for the Cleveland Indians.
The Indians traded the knuckleball pitcher to Toronto on Thursday as part of a six-player deal after it became clear they could not meet his demand for a four-year contract. The 33-year-old Candiotti can become a free agent at the end of the season."I'm more frustrated than bitter that we couldn't work out a deal," Candiotti said. "I really did want to stay in Cleveland. I wasn't just posturing."
Cleveland sent Candiotti and minor league outfielder Turner Ward to the Blue Jays for outfielders Mark Whiten and Glenallen Hill, left-handed pitcher Denis Boucher and a player to be named later. The teams had been discussing a trade since spring training.
To make room for the newcomers, the Indians outrighted utility player Luis Lopez and optioned outfielder Beau Allred to Class AAA Colorado Springs.
Candiotti (7-6) was leading the Indians in wins, and his 2.24 ERA ranked third in the AL.