Milwaukee Brewers designate former All-Star Lance McCullers Jr. for assignment

The Milwaukee Brewers placed veteran right‑hander Lance McCullers Jr. on the designated‑for‑assignment list on July 26, just 11 days after acquiring him from the Houston Astros. The trade on July 15 sent McCullers, a two‑time World Series champion and 2017 All‑Star, along with pitcher Colton Gordon and cash to Milwaukee in exchange for minor‑league outfielder Jadyn Fielder. Houston agreed to cover roughly $4.23 million of McCullers’ $85 million contract, leaving the Brewers with a $2.5 million cost.

McCullers made two relief appearances for Milwaukee, throwing 4 ⅔ innings, striking out five, walking five and allowing two earned runs, giving him a 3.86 ERA with the Brewers. In his debut on July 20 he gave up two earned runs in three innings; his second outing saw four walks and three runs (none earned) in 1 ⅔ innings. The club recalled right‑hander Garrett Stallings from Triple‑A Nashville and announced the move before a game against the Colorado Rockies. The team expects McCullers to clear waivers and likely be assigned to AAA Nashville, where he could remain available for recall.