Brewers acquire K-Rod from Mets

Prince Fielder had barely hoisted his All-Star Game MVP trophy when the Brewers and Mets reminded the baseball world that it’s time to get back to business.

Milwaukee traded late Tuesday for New York closer Francisco Rodriguez and cash, sending two players to be named later to the Mets. It’s another surprise move by Brewers general manager Doug Melvin to bring the team’s pitching up to the level of Fielder and its potent offense.

It was not immediately clear how much cash was involved in the deal for Rodriguez, whose current contract includes a $17.5 million option for 2012 that vests if the right-hander finishes 55 games. He’s finished 34 games so far this year.

Rodriguez was in the news during All-Star festivities when it came to light that he had switched to agent Scott Boras, who also happens to count free-agent-to-be Fielder among his clients.

For the Mets, Rodriguez has a 3.16 ERA and 23 saves in 42 games. The Brewers already have a successful closer in John Axford, who is 23-for-25 in save chances this season.