Cubs acquire veteran right-hander Civale from Athletics

The Chicago Cubs acquired veteran right-handed pitcher Aaron Civale from the Oakland Athletics on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in exchange for minor league pitcher Aiden Moffett. The Cubs also received cash considerations in the deal, which was announced following the team's win over Minnesota.

Civale, 31, returns to Chicago for a second stint after the Athletics designated him for assignment on Wednesday. He had signed a one-year, $6 million contract with Oakland in February. His 2026 season began strongly, but he struggled in recent months, finishing his Athletics tenure with a 5-7 record and a 5.42 ERA over 16 appearances, including 15 starts. He also missed approximately three weeks earlier in the season due to right shoulder tendinitis.

The trade addresses a critical need for the Cubs, whose pitching staff has been decimated by injuries. Starters Cade Horton, Jameson Taillon, Edward Cabrera, Ben Brown, and Justin Steele are all currently sidelined, with Horton out for the season. The Cubs entered Saturday holding the National League's top wild-card spot but trail the Milwaukee Brewers by six games in the NL Central.

Civale is familiar with the organization, having joined the...