Blue Jays deal for 2004 top pick

The Toronto Blue Jays looked West on Tuesday, acquiring right-handed pitcher Matt Bush from the San Diego Padres for a player to be named or cash considerations.

Bush, a converted shortstop who was drafted No. 1 overall in 2004, didn't pitch in 2008 as he was recovering from elbow ligament replacement (Tommy John) surgery.

The five-foot-nine, 195-pounder had a 1-0 record and 1.17 earned-run average in 2007, striking out 16 batters in 7 2/3 innings over seven appearances.

Toronto management sees Bush, who was designated for assignment last Thursday, as a long-term prospect with the potential to become a high quality reliever thanks to a good fastball and a sharp breaking ball.

They hope to help him overcome a difficult past to capitalize on his talent.

Bush never got untracked in San Diego after agreeing to a $3.15-million US signing bonus. Just two weeks later, he was suspended indefinitely after he was arrested at a bar across the street from the team's complex in Peoria, Ariz. He later pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct, trespassing and underage possession or consumption of alcohol.

Bush also was involved in a bar fight last summer in Peoria.

His play in the field never really developed, either, and in 2007 he made the move to the mound, where he was also considered a first-round talent.

The Blue Jays released right-hander Dirk Hayhurst to make room for the 23-year-old Bush, a San Diego native, on their 40-man roster.

Hayhurst was acquired on waivers from the Padres last Oct, 6.