White Sox steal two (more) Brewers pitchers after trade deadline roster shuffle

The Milwaukee Brewers took an unconventional approach at the 2025 trade deadline, opting not to address their most pressing needs, namely, adding a power bat or shoring up the infield. Instead, the front office made a surprising move by acquiring backup catcher Danny Jansen. While Jansen brings experience behind the plate, his addition does little to bolster the lineup's offensive firepower or address the infield depth issues that have plagued the team throughout the season.

Even more puzzling were the Brewers’ pitching additions. They brought in Shelby Miller and Jordan Montgomery, both of whom are currently injured. Montgomery, in particular, won’t contribute at all in 2025, or possibly ever, after undergoing Tommy John surgery earlier this year. The decision to trade for two sidelined arms also came at the cost of DFA'ing healthy arms in Bryan Hudson and Elvis Peguero.

While Hudson and Peguero were both depth options for the Brewers this year, they have a track record of big league success. This made the likelihood of them clearing waivers and remaining in the organization unlikely, and the Chicago White Sox are the team that ended up acquiring them both.

Chicago White Sox claim trade deadline roster casualties Bryan Hudson and Elvis Peguero from the Milwaukee Brewers

The White Sox wasted no time capitalizing on the Brewers roster crunch following the trade deadline, claiming right-handed reliever Elvis Peguero and lefty Bryan Hudson off waivers. Peguero, known for his sinker-heavy arsenal, showed flashes of reliability when healthy, while Hudson impressed with his unique delivery and innings versatility. For the White Sox, who are looking to retool their pitching depth amid a rebuilding phase, these pickups represent low-risk, potentially high-reward additions.

Chicago’s additions of Bryan Hudson and Elvis Peguero continue a growing trend of former Brewers finding a new home on the South Side. The White Sox have quietly built a pipeline of ex-Milwaukee talent, including former Rule 5 Draft pick Gus Varland, who is currently pitching in their minor league system. Another Rule 5 selection, Shane Smith, made an immediate impact with a strong start to the season that earned him an All-Star nod. Versatile swingman Tyler Alexander has also carved out a role on the pitching staff, while veteran starter Aaron Civale joined the club via trade after requesting a move from Milwaukee. That's not even including Adrian Houser, who made 11 impressive starts for the White Sox before being traded to the Tampa Bay Rays at the trade deadline.

Together, these acquisitions reflect the White Sox’s strategy of targeting under-the-radar arms with potential and a level of familiarity. Interestingly, this influx of former Brewers coincides with the arrival of Walker McKinven, Milwaukee’s former run prevention coordinator, who joined the White Sox as their bench coach this past offseason. His presence in the dugout may be influencing Chicago’s approach, as the organization looks to tap into pitchers who thrived under his guidance in Milwaukee.