Struggling Chicago Cubs Reliever DFA’d

The Chicago Cubs have designated right-handed reliever Julian Merryweather for assignment. Merryweather had been an integral member of the bullpen for years but after struggling early in 2025, and with plenty of arms set to return from the injured list soon, the Cubs decided to demote Merryweather. They designated him for assignment and called up veteran arm Brooks Kriske to take his spot.

Merryweather was 0-1 with a 5.79 ERA, 1.82 WHIP and 8 holds in 18.2 innings across 21 appearances out of the bullpen. His struggles in 2025 followed an injury-shortened and disappointing 2024. The Chicago Cubs front office decided they were ready to shake things up in the bullpen and give Kriske a chance to perform for the NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs.

Chicago Cubs DFA Julian Merryweather

The Chicago Cubs made a somewhat surprising move by designating Merryweather for assignment. It followed an outing against the Cincinnati Reds where Merryweather surrendered three hits, a walk, and two earned runs while only recording two outs. The poor appearance for Merryweather was the latest in a string of struggles for the hard-throwing right-hander. After the news that he is being demoted and designated for assignment, it may be the last for him in a Chicago Cubs uniform.

Merryweather had been unable to get back into a rhythm on the mound after missing most of 2024 due to injury. He became an integral member of the Chicago Cubs bullpen in his first season with the team in 2023, leading to the longer leash he received in trying to get back to his peak performance this season. After coming over from the Toronto Blue Jays, Merryweather went 5-1 with a 3.38 ERA and 1.31 WHIP across 72 innings in 69 appearances, including 17 holds and 2 saves.

The team was encouraged that he could be a crucial late-inning reliever for years to come, but after missing most of 2024 and struggling in 2025, that is no longer the case. The Chicago Cubs opted to bring up Kriske to replace Merryweather, and perhaps provide a spark out of the bullpen that Merryweather could not provide. With no room on the 40-man roster, Kriske also has to take Merryweather’s spot on the 40-man roster. This means teams will have seven days to take a chance on the hard-throwing Merryweather or he will be outrighted to AAA Iowa.

Final Thoughts

I was taken aback by this move by the Chicago Cubs. Even though Merryweather hasn’t been on top of his game, I didn’t think they would do something as drastic as designate him for assignment. Especially in favor of a veteran arm like Kriske who hasn’t yet been with the major league team. Because of his arm talent and the results of his 2023 campaign, I think a team will bring in Merryweather. I would be surprised if he is not picked up but hope the Chicago Cubs can retain him and give him another shot to contribute to this bullpen.