LOS ANGELES -- If you know anything about the bond between Clayton Kershaw and A.J. Ellis, their reaction when Ellis was traded to the Phillies on Thursday was predictable.
"Shocked. Quiet," Ellis said, describing his friend and batterymate's reaction when they met in the dugout. "The shock kind of hit us both simultaneously and we both cried."
Ellis, 35, was dealt with Minor League pitcher Tommy Bergjans and a player to be named later or cash considerations for catcher Carlos Ruiz. The Dodgers apparently view Ruiz as an offensive upgrade from Ellis when facing left-handed pitching.