Cubs Release Pitcher with Impressive 3.09 ERA Performance

The Chicago Cubs just made a big roster move, releasing veteran pitcher Chris Flexen right before their series opener against the Cincinnati Reds. Flexen’s shown versatility as a bullpen arm, but advanced stats and shifting team needs probably pushed the Cubs to this decision.

This comes as the Cubs fight for a postseason spot in the NL Central. They’re three games behind the Milwaukee Brewers, and every move feels like it matters a bit more than usual.

The End of Chris Flexen’s Cubs Tenure

Chris Flexen’s time with the Cubs ends after a short, somewhat unpredictable run. The team picked him up after he bounced around five other MLB rosters.

He pitched 43.2 innings this season, posting a decent 3.09 ERA with 22 strikeouts and only 15 earned runs allowed. But the numbers don’t always tell the whole story.

Advanced Metrics Paint a Harsher Picture

Dig into the advanced stats, and things look a little rougher for Flexen. Metrics like SIERA, FIP, and xERA suggest his true performance sits closer to a 5.00 ERA, which lines up with the 4.95 ERA he put up with the White Sox last year.

He gave up seven home runs, and that’s a red flag for Cubs management as they chase more consistency from their pitching staff. They’re looking for stability as the season heads into the home stretch.

Flexen’s Future: Where Could He Land Next?

Getting cut by the Cubs doesn’t necessarily end Flexen’s season. He’s just 29 and has shown he can handle big-league hitters, especially as a multi-inning reliever.

There’s a decent chance another team will take a look at him, either on a minor league deal or maybe even a big-league shot if someone’s desperate for arms.

Teams That Might Come Calling

Here are a few teams that could use Flexen’s help:

• Houston Astros: Their bullpen’s been hammered by injuries, so they could use a long reliever down the stretch.
• New York Yankees: The Yankees have struggled to find steady pitching, and Flexen could eat some innings as they try to stay afloat.
• San Francisco Giants: The Giants have a knack for reviving veteran pitchers’ careers, so maybe they take a gamble on Flexen.

Where he ends up probably depends on which team can offer him the best shot at meaningful innings—and maybe even a playoff run. Not a bad situation, all things considered.

The Cubs’ Pitching Dilemma

With Flexen gone, the Cubs have to look hard at their bullpen depth as they chase the NL Central title. In their recent 3-2 loss to the Reds, the bullpen did its job, giving up just six hits in 34 at-bats.

But the offense just couldn’t get it done, and they couldn’t climb back after losing an early lead. Sitting at 65-47, the Cubs know every win is crucial if they want to catch the Brewers.

Key Priorities Moving Forward

To stay in the race, the Cubs should:

• Bolster their bullpen so they can trust it late in tight games.
• Find ways to spark the offense and avoid close, frustrating losses.
• Keep team morale high as the playoff chase heats up.

Final Thoughts: A Strategic Move at a Crucial Time

The Chicago Cubs just released Chris Flexen right before a major series. That move feels deliberate, and it says a lot about where their heads are at with the playoffs looming.

Flexen’s numbers show some promise, but the advanced stats and his up-and-down outings probably made the Cubs want steadier arms in their bullpen. When the postseason race gets this intense, you can’t really afford to gamble much on inconsistency.

Flexen isn’t done, though. He’s a solid multi-inning reliever, and I’d bet teams in the playoff chase—or just hungry for more pitching depth—will give him a look.

Maybe he heads straight back to the majors, or maybe there’s a quick stop in the minors first. Either way, Chris Flexen’s baseball story isn’t finished yet. Not by a long shot.

 
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