Phils trade reliever Michael Schwimer to Blue Jays

The Philadelphia Phillies traded right-handed relief pitcher Michael Schwimer to the Toronto Blue Jays for first baseman Art Charles on Saturday, according to a report by CSNPhilly.com.

Schwimer, who just turned 27, was part of a controversy last August when, after claiming he was injured, initially refused to be sent to the Phillies' Triple-A Lehigh Valley affiliate.

Schwimer eventually reported, but the incident was investigated by the MLBPA. No official word from either the union nor the team has ever indicated whether a grievance was filed on Schwimer's behalf.

Schwimer's major league record includes a 4.62 ERA, with 52 strikeouts and 23 walks in 48 2/3 innings of work.

Schwimer will likely be looked at as a middle reliever by the Blue Jays. Charles, meanwhile, has never played above Low-A ball in the Phillies' minor league organization. In three seasons, he has amassed a .239 batting average, but has also struck in in 30 percent of his at-bats.