D'backs Start Christmas Shopping

The Arizona Diamondbacks landed highly-coveted ace Dan Haren from the Oakland Athletics and then pulled the trigger on another deal that would bring outfielder/infielder Chris Burke and pitcher Chad Qualls out west.

Arizona sent 6 prospects to Oakland including pitchers Brett Anderson, Greg Smith and Dana Eveland. Outfielders Carlos Gonzalez and Aaron Cunningham and first baseman Chris Carter were also part of the deal.

Shortly after the Diamondbacks sent All-Star closer Jose Valverde to Houston for infielder/outfielder Chris Burke and pitchers Chad Qualls and Juan Gutierrez.

Haren said he was relieved when asked about the deal. "I'm all over the Internet and newspapers, even though I shouldn't be, and I saw my name out there so much," he told MLB.com.

This makes Arizona's first four starters Brandon Webb, Haren, Randy Johnson, and Doug Davis heading into the 2008 season. After getting swept out of the playoffs by the Colorado Rockies, they clearly set out to improve for next season.

For more information go to www.MLB.com or the Diamondback's website, www.ArizonaDiamondbacks.com.