The Milwaukee Brewers activated right-handed pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. from the 15-day injured list on Friday, July 17, 2026. Manager Pat Murphy confirmed that the veteran will initially work out of the bullpen as he transitions to his new organization following a trade from the Houston Astros.
A Strategic Shift to the Bullpen
For a pitcher who has spent the vast majority of his career as a starter, the move to a relief role is a deliberate, short-term plan. Fitting in right now, that’s where we need help.
McCullers, who has made 148 of his 154 career major league appearances as a starter, arrives in Milwaukee with a professional, open-minded approach. He acknowledged that his career has reached a point defined by adversity—including multiple surgeries—and he is eager to contribute however possible. I’m an open book.
The Trade Mechanics and Financial Context
The acquisition of McCullers is part of a larger, calculated maneuver by Brewers President of Baseball Operations Matt Arnold. In the deal finalized July 15, Milwaukee received McCullers and left-handed pitcher Colton Gordon in exchange for minor-league outfielder Jadyn Fielder.
Analysts suggest this deal reflects Milwaukee’s preference for avoiding high-cost prospect trades. By taking on a portion of the salary for a player currently returning from injury, the Brewers secured two arms—including the younger, team-controlled Gordon—without parting with top-tier prospect capital.
Consulting a Former Teammate
The transition from a lifelong Astros career was made easier by a familiar voice. When Houston approached him about waiving his no-trade clause, McCullers sought advice from former Brewers closer Josh Hader, who currently plays for the Astros. Actually when the Astros had brought up Milwaukee and asked me if I was willing to waive the no-trade, one of the first calls I made was to Josh,
McCullers shared.
“Nothing but absolute amazing things to say about the organization, the city, the fans. He hasn’t been here in a few years but enjoyed his time in the city so much and it’ll be a great place to go and be for the rest of the year.”
Lance McCullers Jr., via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
McCullers also cited conversations with other players, including Brett Phillips and Dallas Keuchel, who reinforced the positive reputation of the Milwaukee clubhouse and coaching staff. It’s a good opportunity for me to come to a great winning club that has World Series aspirations.
Rotation Depth in a Challenging Season
The arrival of McCullers comes at a precarious time for the Brewers’ staff. With Brandon Woodruff recently transferred to the 60-day injured list and Kyle Harrison sidelined with forearm tightness, the rotation is feeling the strain. Additionally, prospect Jacob Misiorowski has been monitored closely for fatigue, and the team is operating without several left-handed relief options, including Angel Zerpa and Rob Zastryzny.
The corresponding roster move saw left-hander Jared Koenig optioned to Triple-A Nashville. Koenig, who had been on the active roster all of last season, struggled in his most recent outing before the All-Star break. As the team pushes through the final stretch of the season, the focus remains on keeping key arms healthy. For now, McCullers will provide the bullpen with a veteran presence while the organization evaluates how best to integrate him into their competitive framework for the remainder of 2026.
