Brewers quietly acquire infield depth in trade with Athletics

The Milwaukee Brewers acquired infielder Jonathan Ornelas from the Athletics for cash considerations on Saturday. Milwaukee activated the 26-year-old for its game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.

Ornelas had appeared in six games for the Athletics in 2026, going 2-for-12 for a .167 batting average while striking out seven times. Earlier this week, the Athletics designated him for assignment, after which he elected free agency before rejoining the Athletics on a minor league contract. Because he was not on a 40-man roster under his current deal, he remained eligible to be traded despite the Aug. 3 trade deadline having passed.

The move gives the Brewers an infielder with experience across multiple positions. Ornelas has played every infield spot except first base during his major-league career and has also made occasional appearances in the outfield. He has been a neutral defender or better at every position except second base.

Although his major-league offensive production has been limited, Ornelas has performed much better in Triple-A this season. Across 81 games with the Yankees and Athletics affiliates, he has recorded a 128 wRC+, along with 11 home runs and 11 stolen bases.

Overall, Ornelas has appeared in 38 career MLB games for the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves and Athletics. He has hit .200 with two doubles and three RBIs during that time. He had never recorded more than 37 major-league at-bats in any individual season before 2026.

Milwaukee designated Jihwan Bae for assignment to make room for Ornelas. The Brewers signed Bae last weekend after the Mets released him, following a season at Triple-A Syracuse. He appeared in four games for Milwaukee, posting one hit in two at-bats while primarily serving as a pinch runner or defensive replacement.

Bae’s departure comes as the Brewers continue to manage infield uncertainty. Cooper Pratt is on the injured list with a strained right hamstring, while Brice Turang is dealing with a left knee injury.