🔥 SHOCKING MOVE: Cubs Release Key Reliever Chris Flexen—A Decision That Could Haunt Them! 🔥

In a stunning move that has left fans and analysts alike questioning the Chicago Cubs’ decision-making, the team has released one of their most reliable bullpen arms, Chris Flexen. Despite a solid 3.09 ERA over 43⅔ innings this season, Flexen's inconsistent performances, including struggles in July, led to the Cubs parting ways with the veteran reliever.

A Rollercoaster Season

Chris Flexen’s 2024 campaign with the Cubs had a promising start. After being called up from Triple-A Iowa, the right-handed reliever delivered several key performances out of the bullpen, maintaining an ERA under 3.00 for most of the season. However, Flexen’s performance began to falter as the season progressed. His ERA skyrocketed in July to 7.47, surrendering 12 runs in just four appearances, which ultimately led to the Cubs’ difficult decision to release him.

Manager Craig Counsell expressed his disappointment over the decision, stating, “It wasn’t a fun conversation. It never is, but I think Chris has been a contributor on this team. He’s contributed in some big ways to this team. Sometimes, it doesn’t feel fair.”

Fans and Analysts React

The timing of Flexen’s release has raised serious questions, especially with the Cubs still in the hunt for a playoff spot. Fans have voiced their concerns, believing that releasing such a talented arm could come back to haunt the Cubs, particularly as the season heads into its most critical stretch.

Many argue that Flexen’s inconsistent July was a blip in an otherwise solid season, and given the Cubs' need for depth in the bullpen, cutting him loose could prove to be a costly mistake. "This move doesn’t make sense," said one Cubs fan on social media. "Flexen had been one of the more reliable guys out there, and with the playoffs on the line, this could be a decision they regret."

A New Beginning for Flexen?

Despite the shock of his release, Flexen is keeping a positive outlook. In a statement following his departure from the Cubs, he shared his determination to continue his career elsewhere.

"Being part of the Cubs organization was a privilege, and I'm grateful for the opportunities I had to contribute to the team. While this chapter has come to an unexpected close, I'm focused on the future. I'm eager to continue my career and am open to any opportunity that allows me to showcase my skills and passion for the game." — Chris Flexen

With his performance in the 2024 season, it’s expected that other teams will be interested in Flexen’s services. His ability to provide long relief and his experience in high-leverage situations make him a valuable asset for teams looking to strengthen their bullpen.

What’s Next for the Cubs?

The Cubs are now faced with the challenge of filling the void left by Flexen. In response to the release, they’ve called up pitcher Javier Assad from Triple-A and placed Ryan Brasier on the injured list. While these moves are necessary, they have yet to convince fans that the Cubs have sufficiently addressed their bullpen concerns.

As the postseason race heats up, the Cubs will need to rely on their remaining bullpen arms to step up. Whether they can maintain the level of performance that Flexen provided remains to be seen.

Conclusion: Was It the Right Call?

As the Cubs march forward in their pursuit of a playoff spot, this bold decision will remain a point of contention. While some see it as a necessary move, others believe it could be a costly misstep. Time will tell whether the Cubs' decision to release Chris Flexen will prove to be a stroke of genius or a blunder that haunts them throughout the season.