runs and his next pitch hit Matt Tuiasosopo in the shoulder with a slider. Chicago Cubs On January 31, 2014, Hammel signed a one-year, $6 million contract with the Chicago Cubs. Before being traded, he compiled an 8–5 win–loss record to go with a 2.98 ERA and 104 SO. Oakland Athletics On July 4, 2014, the Cubs traded Hammel, along with pitcher Jeff Samardzija, to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for top shortstop prospect Addison Russell, pitcher Dan Straily, outfielder Billy McKinney, and a player to be named later. After the trade with the A's, he recorded a 4.26 ERA and a 2–6 win–loss record. Return to Cubs On December 8, 2014, after becoming a free agent following the end of the 2014 season, Hammel agreed to terms on a two-year, $20 million deal to return to the Chicago Cubs. Hammel finished the 2015 season with a 10–7 record and a 3.74 ERA. He had the highest line drive percentage allowed (24.5%) of all major league pitchers. In game four of the 2015 National League Division Series vs. the St. Louis Cardinals, Hammel was the starting pitcher and pitched only 3 innings allowing three hits, two runs, one home run, and walked three batters with a no decision in the Cubs' 6–4 win over the Cardinals. Hammel also was the starting pitcher in game four of the 2015 National League Championship Series vs. the New York Mets. He only pitched innings, allowing four hits, five runs, two home runs, and walked two batters with the loss in the Cubs' 8–3 loss against the Mets. Hammel finished the first half of the 2016 MLB season with a solid 7–5 record and a 3.46 ERA. Hammel finished the season with a 15–10 record and a 3.83 ERA. Although he was not included on the Cubs' postseason roster, Hammel received his first World Series ring. On November 5, 2016, the Cubs declined Hammel's option for 2017 and he became a free agent. Kansas City Royals On February 8, 2017, Hammel signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Kansas City Royals. The contract includes a mutual option for the 2019 season. In his first season in Kansas City, Hammel struggled throughout the season, posting a record of 8-13 with a career worst 5.29 ERA in innings. Hammel began the 2018 season in the rotation but posted an ERA of 6.15 in 18 starts