The Tampa Bay Rays' Danny Jansen rounds the bases after hitting a home run against the Athletics on July 1 in Tampa, Fla. (AP file photo)

NEW YORK — Veteran catcher Danny Jansen was traded by the Tampa Bay Rays to his hometown Milwaukee Brewers on Monday night for minor league infielder Jadher Areinamo.

Jansen was in Tampa Bay’s original lineup against the New York Yankees but got pulled about 45 minutes before the first pitch. The trade was announced shortly after the Rays ended a four-game losing streak with a 4-2 win at Yankee Stadium.

Jansen said he found out about the deal after meeting with manager Kevin Cash and president of baseball operations Erik Neander.

“I was getting ready to play the game, and I understand that side of baseball,” said Jansen, in his eighth major league season. “Just grateful for the time spent here with the guys.”

Tampa Bay signed Jansen to an $8.5 million, one-year contract on Dec. 13. He batted .204 with 11 homers and 29 RBIs in 73 games for the Rays, who also sent cash to the Brewers as part of the deal.

“He’s a leader. He’s a hitter. He’s been in big games. I’ve gotten great reports,” Milwaukee manager Pat Murphy said after his team’s 8-4 victory at home over the Chicago Cubs.

Brewers catcher Eric Haase was designated for assignment to clear a roster spot for Jansen.

“It’s a hard day for the Brewers in some ways because Eric Haase for two years has been an incredible team member. When he plays, he helps us win. Anytime we subtract a guy who’s been a leader in that clubhouse, too, it’s a really tough day,” Murphy said. “I don’t know Danny Jansen. I know his reputation. I know he’s a great player. And I trust our front office. I just do. They’re trying to make upgrades in every little area they can.”

The 30-year-old Jansen grew up in Appleton, Wisconsin. He is joining the NL Central leaders to serve as a backup to William Conteras, who is playing through a fractured finger. Conteras is hitting .245 with six homers and 42 RBIs in 100 games.

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AP freelance reporter Rich Rovito in Milwaukee contributed to this report.

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