the A's just keep on plugging in the starting pitching staff very nicely, after getting rid of mulder and hudson.

PHOENIX (AP) -- The Oakland Athletics acquired left-hander Brad Halsey from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for right-hander Juan Cruz on Sunday.

Halsey, whom the Diamondbacks acquired as part of the trade that sent Randy Johnson to the New York Yankees, was 8-12 with a 4.61 ERA last year for Arizona. He made 28 appearances, including 26 starts.

Cruz, who spent last season shuttling back and forth between Oakland and Sacramento of the PCL, pitched in 28 games with the A's last year, all in relief.

"I feel positive," Cruz said. "We have a good team here but I feel good about the opportunity. It's a good chance."

Cruz, whom the A's obtained in the trade that sent Tim Hudson to the Atlanta Braves, has not allowed an earned run in 10 1-3 innings this spring.

Cruz also has pitched for the Braves and Chicago Cubs during his four-year career.