NEWSFLASH: Adam Melhuse traded to Texas

Per the Associated Press, the Oakland Athletics have traded catcher Adam Melhuse to the Texas Rangers for cash considerations. Apparently, the Rangers had expressed interest in acquiring Melhuse at least a month ago.

The 35-year-old Melhuse appears set to become Gerald Laird's backup catcher, with Chris Stewart probably going back to the minors to get more playing time. Melhuse is 6 for 26 at the plate this year with just one extra-base hit (a double), but with four walks as well.

There's also this quote worth noting from the AP story:

"I'd have to think anywhere would be better than here," Melhuse said before packing up his locker and saying goodbyes. "It's weird, I've been here for five years now. I'm comfortable here but playing time is tough to come by for me. The other day I was joking with my agent, saying 'I can barely feel a pulse anymore career-wise. Pretty soon, I'm going to flat line. It's like I'm dying a slow death over here.' Hopefully this will be an opportunity to play. ... It's bittersweet."

Melhuse had played with the Athletics since the beginning of 2003, so he's quite familiar with Ron Washington by now. It'll be interesting to see if some better backup will give Laird more opportunities to rest, and maybe get his season back on track.