The Chicago Cubs are letting one of their relievers go after trading for him less than eleven months ago.
The Cubs acquired right-hander José Cuas from the Kansas City Royals on July 31, 2023, in exchange for outfielder Nelson Velázquez. Cuas has struggled this season for Chicago, compiling an ERA of 7.43 in 13 1/3 innings pitched across nine appearances. Last season, Cuas made 27 appearances for the Cubs, accruing a 3.04 ERA across 23 2/3 innings pitched.
On Sunday, Chicago designated the 29-year-old Cuas for assignment in a move that enabled the Cubs to add another reliever, right-hander Ethan Roberts, to their 40-man roster.
Chicago optioned Roberts to Triple-A Iowa Cubs, where he’s struck out 13 with an ERA of 0.00 in 9 2/3 innings pitched across 10 appearances this season.
Roberts did not pitch last season, as he was recovering from Tommy John surgery that took place on July 13, 2022. Shortly before suffering shoulder inflammation that led to surgery, Roberts made his Major League debut with Chicago on April 9, 2022, followed by nine further relief appearances for the Cubs that season.
On December 2, 2023, Roberts signed with Chicago on a Minor League contract, a deal which had an opt-out this weekend.
In placing Cuas on waivers and adding Roberts to their 40-man roster, the Cubs are attempting to improve a bullpen that has not yet proved capable this season.
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