Mariners bolster staff by dealing for Leake

The Seattle Mariners, attempting to bolster their beleaguered starting rotation in the midst of the American League wild card race, acquired right-hander Mike Leake from the St. Louis Cardinals for cash, international slot money and minor league infielder Rayder Ascanio. Leake joins a Seattle rotation that has struggled to produce quality outings the past month while dealing with injuries to James Paxton of Ladner, B.C., and Felix Hernandez. Leake is 7-12 with a 4.21 ERA and is a proven veteran to add to Seattle’s rotation. He is under contract through the 2020 season with an option for 2021.