Teams need relievers, of course, but their volatility means that you can’t really keep them for the long haul like you can with starting pitchers or position players. The name of the game is to acquire relievers when you need them and to trade your relievers when they have maximum value.

Angel Zerpa has been exclusively a reliever the past three years in Kansas City. Could the Brewers use him as a starter?

The Milwaukee Brewers made a subtle offseason trade with the Royals, moving two roster pieces to benefit the team’s pitching plans.

The Royals traded left-handed reliever Angel Zerpa to the Brewers for versatile outfielder Isaac Collins and right-hander Nick Mears.