The Kansas City Royals announced Thursday, July 30 that they have traded right-handed pitcher Joe Blanton (pictured) to the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for cash considerations.

A former UK pitching standout, Blanton had a 2-2 mark and 3.89 ERA in 15 games with the Royals this year, including four starts. He also had two saves as a reliever. He did not play in 2014.

Blanton, 34, has a career record of 87-91 with 4.50 ERA. He was a first-round draft pick (24th overall) by Oakland in 2002.