The Chicago Cubs are making moves with an eye on 2025.
Veteran reliever Héctor Neris was designated for assignment and released Tuesday when he wasn’t claimed off waivers, a source confirmed to the Tribune.
Right-hander Jack Neely, who was acquired from the New York Yankees for reliever Mark Leiter Jr., has reportedly been called up to take the roster spot.
Neris, 35, had a $9 million club option for 2025 that would have become a player option if he made 60 appearances or finished 45 games this season while not ending the year on the injured list. He was trending towards hitting both marks as the Cubs closer, sitting at 46 appearances and 33 games finished entering the team’s series opener Tuesday against the Detroit Tigers. He posted a 3.89 ERA and 107 ERA+ in 44 innings while recording 17 saves in 22 chances.
Neris’ departure creates a spot in the bullpen for Neely, 24, and an opportunity for the organization to get a look at how he could fit on next year’s roster.
The 6-foot-8 Neely had been dominant at Triple-A Iowa in six outings since joining his new organization. He struck out 13 of 25 batters faced in 6 2/3 innings with just one walk and one unearned run allowed.
