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. 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 Mer