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Arizona gets Abreu to complete trade

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By Steve Gilbert / MLB.com

10/09/09 9:45 PM EST

PHOENIX -- The D-backs finally got their man.

The club completed its Aug. 31 trade with the Dodgers by acquiring infielder Tony Abreu on Friday. The deal sent right-hander Jon Garland to Los Angeles, and he helped the Dodgers hold off the Rockies for the National League West title.

"We think he's a good player and a good fit for us," D-backs general manager Josh Byrnes said.

In a related development, the Dodgers and Abreu reached a settlement on a grievance he filed regarding a service time dispute during the 2007 season. Abreu received 30 days service time and an undisclosed amount of money in the settlement.

Even with the added service time, Abreu likely will not be salary-arbitration eligible until after the 2011 season, though there is a remote possibility he could qualify as a Super Two following next year. The D-backs had been concerned Abreu would be eligible for arbitration after 2010, meaning he would receive a higher salary sooner.

Abreu, who will turn 25 next month, appeared in six games for the Dodgers this year and in 59 in 2007. In 54 games for Triple-A Albuquerque this year, he hit .353 and had a .999 OPS (on-base plus slugging).

A hip injury sidelined Abreu for the entire 2008 season, and he has battled health issues during his career.

A switch-hitter, Abreu, who will play winter ball in the Dominican Republic, could wind up being paired at second base with Ryan Roberts next season. Abreu also has played shortstop and third base in the big leagues.

"We got a lot of production at second base this year using a number of people, and that may be the same going forward," Byrnes said.

To make room for Abreu, the team designated reliever Bobby Korecky for assignment.

Steve Gilbert is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.