Brewers career K leader Gallardo traded to Texas

It is a quiet Brewers offseason no more.

Yovani Gallardo, the franchise's career strikeout leader, has been traded to the Texas Rangers for three minor leaguers: right-handed pitcher Corey Knebel, infielder Luis Sardinas and right-handed pitcher Marcos Diplan.

Sardinas spent time with the Rangers as an infielder last season and could end up taking a starting spot in the Brewers infield, possibly for Aramis Ramirez or Jean Segura.

Gallardo started the Brewers five previous Opening Day games in a row and had notched four consecutive 200 strikeout seasons before seeing his numbers dip a bit the last two seasons. He was in the final year of a contract that will pay him $13 million before hitting free agency.

The Brewers will pick up $4 million of Gallardo's salary, freeing up some cash to possibly pursue another top pitcher. Stevens Point's Jordan Zimmermann has been one name thrown around as a possible addition for the Brewers' staff.