The Milwaukee Brewers are finalizing a trade to acquire veteran right handed pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. from the Houston Astros, according to multiple reports. In the deal, the Astros are expected to receive left handed pitcher Colton Gordon along with other considerations.
McCullers, 32, has spent his entire major league career with the Astros since being drafted by the team in the first round in 2012. He has dealt with significant injury issues in recent seasons, including right shoulder inflammation that placed him on the injured list in May 2026. This season, he has made eight starts with a 6.86 earned run average over 39.1 innings.
The move comes in the final year of McCullers five year, $85 million contract extension signed in 2021. The Astros are reportedly taking on a portion of the remaining salary, which helps them create payroll flexibility under the competitive balance tax threshold.
For the Brewers, adding McCullers provides rotation depth as they compete in the National League Central. The team has relied on a mix of starters this season and could use McCullers as an innings eater down the stretch if he can return to health.
McCullers has a history of strong postseason performances with Houston, including key contributions during their 2017 and 2022 championship runs. His curveball and overall pitch mix have been effective when healthy, though consistency has been a challenge due to injuries.
The Brewers aim to bolster their pitching staff for a potential playoff push, while the Astros look to reshape their roster with younger talent. Details of the full return and any medical reviews remain pending official confirmation from both teams.
McCullers arrival in Milwaukee could impact the Brewers rotation plans immediately if he is ready to contribute. The Astros, meanwhile, gain a left handed arm in Gordon, who offers long term upside in their system.