Brewers acquire closer Joakim Soria from White Sox

As the trade deadline approaches, the Milwaukee Brewers have been in search for pitching. On Thursday, they made their first major addition with the acquisition of reliever Joakim Soria from the Chicago White Sox.

Milwaukee seems to be taking the approach that could be quite popular among contenders this season. Due to the lack of reliable starting pitchers on the trade market, contenders are now looking to bolster their bullpens to eat up innings.

The back of Milwaukee’s bullpen was already strong with All-Star relievers Josh Hader and Jeremy Jeffress. Paired with closer Cory Knebel, the Brewers already felt confident about the backend of their bullpen.

Now they add Soria, who has pitched very well in Chicago this season. Across 38.2 innings, the 34-year-old carries a 2.56 ERA, 1.16 WHIP with 16 saves and a .590 OPS allowed to opponents.

He should prove to be an effective reliever for Milwaukee and allow them to mix Jeffress, Hader and Soria from the sixth inning and beyond.

The Brewers will have a $10 million team option on Soria for the 2019 season, though they are likely to exercise the $1 million opt-out clause.

At this time, the return headed to the White Sox isn’t yet known. This could be the start of several moves for them in the coming days.