Cardinals acquire Fassero from Cubs

In need of pitching help, the Cardinals got left-handed reliever Jeff Fassero from the Chicago Cubs on Sunday for two minor leaguers to be named and cash.

The trade was announced after Arizona beat the Cubs 7-0. Fassero pitched to lefties Luis Gonzalez and Erubiel Durazo in the Diamondbacks' five-run eighth inning, and walked them both. The loss dropped the Cubs to 54-74.

"I've had good times here. It's great playing in that city. I'm a little disappointed the way this year went because after what we did last year and what expectations we had this year, it's a little disappointing," Fassero said.

Fassero, 39, is 5-6 with a 6.18 ERA in 51 innings. He has pitched in 57 games this season.

On Saturday, the Cardinals placed starter Matt Morris and left-hander reliever Mike Matthews on the disabled list. The Cardinals added right-hander Rick White and left-handed Nerio Rodriguez to their staff.

"We felt a need to increase our depth in the bullpen, particularly from the left side," Cardinals general manager Walt Jocketty said. "We think Fassero's experience will strengthen our pitching staff as we enter the season's final stretch drive."

--AP