Astros trade veteran right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. to Brewers for outfielder Jadyn Fielder

Lance McCullers Jr. waived his ten-and-five no-trade clause and approved a trade to the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday. Houston also included Triple-A left-hander Colton Gordon and cash, receiving Single-A outfielder Jadyn Fielder, the son of former slugger Prince Fielder, in return. The move frees two spots on the Astros’ 40-man roster and shifts most of McCullers’ remaining $85 million contract to Milwaukee, giving Houston additional payroll flexibility.

"It’s a lot to take in, but I’ve been in Houston basically my whole adult life, had two kids here… I’m proud of what I helped this great organization accomplish over the years and I’m looking forward to a new opportunity with another great organization in Milwaukee," McCullers told MLB.com.

Astros general manager Dana Brown said the decision was difficult because of McCullers’ long tenure with the club, but emphasized the need for roster flexibility. The veteran right-hander has been on the injured list since May with a right rotator-cuff impingement and posted a 6.86 ERA in 39 1/3 innings this season, the final year of his five-year deal.

"Lance graciously accepted a trade, and what he’s meant to the organization makes it even more difficult," Brown added.

Milwaukee, leading the National League Central, will add McCullers to its rotation as it pursues a playoff berth. McCullers, a two-time World Series champion with Houston, expressed optimism about joining a competitive club.

"I felt like it was an opportunity for the Astros to move forward and continue their year and playoff aspirations, and gave me an opportunity to go to a great team who’s in first place," he said.

The trade also provides Houston with two open spots on its 40-man roster, allowing the club to promote pitchers Ronel Blanco and Hayden Wesneski once they return from the injured list.