Brewers Add Reliever Joel Kuhnel in Trade With Athletics

June 7, 2026 - 21:11

The Milwaukee Brewers made a low-key bullpen addition on Tuesday, acquiring right-handed pitcher Joel Kuhnel from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for cash considerations. The move adds depth to a relief corps that has seen its share of turnover this season.

Kuhnel, 29, has split the 2024 campaign between the Athletics and their Triple-A affiliate in Las Vegas. In 14 major league appearances this year, he has posted a 5.40 ERA over 13.1 innings, striking out eight batters while walking four. His numbers at the Triple-A level have been stronger, with a 3.86 ERA across 18.2 innings and a 1.29 WHIP.

Originally an 11th-round draft pick by the Cincinnati Reds in 2016, Kuhnel made his big league debut with Cincinnati in 2020. He spent parts of three seasons with the Reds before being claimed off waivers by Oakland last winter. For his career, he holds a 5.40 ERA in 71.2 innings across 68 appearances.

The Brewers are hoping a change of scenery and a fresh start in Milwaukee's pitching development system can help Kuhnel tap into the potential that made him a reliable arm in the Reds' system. He features a sinker that sits in the mid-90s and a slider that generates ground balls when located well. With the Brewers currently holding a comfortable lead in the National League Central, the front office appears focused on adding depth pieces that could contribute down the stretch or in a potential postseason run.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Brewers transferred a player to the 60-day injured list. Kuhnel is expected to report to the team ahead of their upcoming series.