HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros have acquired RHP Joel Kuhnel from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for cash considerations. To make room for Kuhnel on the 40-man roster, the Astros transferred RHP Lance McCullers Jr. to the 60-day IL. Additionally, Kuhnel has been optioned to Triple A Sugar Land. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager Dana Brown.

Kuhnel, 28, made two appearances for the Reds this season, but spent the majority of his campaign at Triple A Louisville, making 21 relief appearances for the Bats. He was designated for assignment by the Reds on June 13. Kuhnel has pitched in parts of four Major League seasons (2019-20, 2022-23), all with the Reds, appearing in 69 career games, while posting a 6.20 ERA (51ER/74IP). He also has pitched parts of four seasons at the Triple A level (2019, 2021-23), making 51 appearances with a 4.15 ERA (26ER/56.1IP).