RIO DE JANERIO (AP) - The Rio de Janerio Capybaras last week traded pitchers Felipe Lira and John Roper to the rival Long Beach Lobsters at the deadline this week. The move was part of a multi player deal that saw the Lobsters' 1st round pick, two minor leaguers and 3B Alfredo Hernandez come to Rio. Just like the competition between these two teams on the field, the trade talks were very intense.

"We felt it would be in our best interest to trade Lira and Roper. Recent budget constraints meant that we would not be able to re-sign one of these guys. Rather than lose one to free agency and get nothing for him, we felt it in the best interest of the club to make this deal. We got younger, and in gaining 3B Alfredo Hernandez we solidified our 3rd base slot."

Indeed, the Capybaras now possess arguably the best defense in the league, as well as a very high powered offence. They're going to need it too. The once pitching rich Rio team now has some gaping holes in their pitching staff. In effect, they traded 3 of their starting pitchers this season.

"We have a few good young arms in the minors, but we will be aggressively pursuing an established arm or two in the off-season."