The Houston Astros traded right-hander Lance McCullers Jr., left-hander Colton Gordon and cash to the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday for minor league outfielder Jadyn Fielder.
McCullers, a veteran who helped the Astros win World Series titles in 2017 and 2022, waived his no-trade clause to approve the deal. The move gives Houston roster flexibility ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline while sending McCullers to a Brewers team in first place.
McCullers, who is on the injured list with a right rotator cuff impingement, said the trade was difficult after spending his entire adult life in Houston. "This is my home and it will continue to be my home," he told MLB.com.
Astros general manager Dana Brown noted the challenge of trading a longtime pillar. Brewers president of baseball operations Matt Arnold said McCullers is expected in Milwaukee on Thursday and could make a major league start soon.
The 32-year-old McCullers is in the final year of a five-year, $85 million contract. Gordon, 27, is expected to join the Brewers' Triple-A rotation.