Hideki Okajima Faded Into Oblivion As Red Sox Career Progressed

Hideki Okajima emerged as one of the best relievers in the game during his rookie season with the Boston Red Sox in 2007, but ever since, the Japanese reliever progressively declined, ultimately leading to his removal from the 40-man roster.

Boston Red Sox Acquire Franklin Morales From Colorado Rockies

The Boston Red Sox have acquired left-hander Franklin Morales in a trade with the Colorado Rockies in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.

Hideki Okajima was designated for assignment in order to make room for Morales on the major league roster.

Morales, a 25-year-old reliever, is 0-1 with a 3.86 ERA and 11 strikeouts in 14 innings for the Rockies. In five major league seasons, Morales has compiled a record of 7-11, a 4.83 ERA and 114 strikeouts.

In his rookie season, Morales posted a 3-2 record, an ERA of 3.43 and a career-high 26 strikeouts. Morales struggled in his second season with the Rockies, going 1-2 with a 6.39 ERA and nine strikeouts in five games.

Morales began his career as a starting pitcher, starting 15 games in his first three seasons, including a career-high eight starts in his rookie campaign.

Boston also acquired signed 14-year veteran starter Kevin Millwood earlier on Thursday.