Starting pitching is highly sought after as the trade deadline approaches, and with limited quality starters available, teams are willing to pay a premium for reliable arms. This situation has prompted the Milwaukee Brewers to assess their starting pitching depth, potentially leading to trades involving their veteran left-handers, José Quintana or Nestor Cortes, before the Thursday deadline.
Typically, teams at the bottom of the standings seek to trade away rotation talent for prospects, while those leading their divisions hold onto their proven starters. The Brewers find themselves in a unique position due to their strong rotation depth, allowing them to consider the trade market actively. A notable candidate could be Adrian Houser, who was previously traded to the New York Mets by Milwaukee.
Adrian Houser’s career appeared to be in decline after inconsistent seasons that resulted in an ERA above 4.10. However, following a tumultuous stint with the Mets in 2025 and a brief period in the Rangers’ minor league system, Houser found success with the Chicago White Sox. Since joining the White Sox on May 20, he has recorded an impressive 2.10 ERA over 11 starts, showcasing his potential as a valuable asset on the trading block.
Recent reports indicate that the Chicago Cubs are showing interest in acquiring Houser as they look to bolster their starting rotation. Despite the apparent improvement in Houser’s performance, scouts caution that his recent stats might not be sustainable; his expected ERA suggests he could face regression in the coming months. While Houser presents a cost-effective option as a middle-of-the-rotation starter, his ability to maintain elite-level performance remains uncertain.
As the trade deadline looms, the Brewers’ decision to explore trades for their pitchers reflects the dynamic nature of baseball transactions, often driven by teams’ varying competitive states. Whether Houser finds a new home with the Cubs or another contender, his resurgence after a challenging period is a testament to the unpredictability of player development and struggle leading to potential new opportunities.
This situation serves as a hopeful reminder of how players can reclaim their form, and it also highlights the excitement of the upcoming trade deadline, as teams look to strengthen their rosters for playoff contention.