The Milwaukee Brewers have honored Aaron Civale’s trade request by sending the right-hander to the Chicago White Sox, a team that set the modern-era MLB record for the most losses in a single season last year. Civale, who turned 30 on Thursday, was demoted to the bullpen in favor of Jacob Misiorowski, whose impressive debut was cut short by leg cramps. The Brewers officially acknowledged Civale’s request on Friday, and he is now joining a White Sox team that has struggled immensely this season, posting a 41-121 record last year. The White Sox, currently facing a similar downturn, are on pace for just 54 wins this season, making the trade seem like a long shot for Civale’s success.
The Milwaukee Brewers honored Aaron Civale’s trade request by sending him to the Chicago White Sox, a team that set the modern-era MLB record for the most losses in a single season last year. Civale, a 30-year-old right-hander, was demoted to the bullpen this week after struggling with his performance. The decision to trade him came after an emotional moment on his birthday, when the Brewers wished him a happy birthday on social media, only for the team to quietly honor his request by moving him to the White Sox.
Although the White Sox are still struggling, they are not as far gone as they were last season. With a current record of 23-46, they appear to be on pace for around 54 wins this season, which would be a significant improvement from their 41-121 record last year. However, the team is still not performing at the level expected of them, and their struggles will have to be addressed if they are to remain competitive within their division.
In return for Civale, the Brewers acquired Andrew Vaughn, a former highly-touted prospect who has yet to live up to his potential. Vaughn, who was selected third overall in the 2019 MLB Draft, has struggled in his rookie season, posting a lifetime wins above replacement of -0.4 and hitting a career-worst .189 this season. Despite this, the Brewers are optimistic that Vaughn can still contribute in the future.
Civale’s career has been a rollercoaster, with his performance fluctuating greatly from season to season. After being traded to the Brewers from Tampa Bay, he has pitched just five starts this season, posting an ERA of 4.91 and failing to make an impact on the team.
The Brewers’ decision to trade Civale may have been influenced by the team’s overall performance, as they currently sit 5.5 games behind the Chicago Cubs for the NL Central crown. With the trade, the Brewers could be making a statement that they are willing to make tough decisions to improve their chances of success.