In a surprising move, the Chicago Cubs have decided to part ways with pitcher Hector Neris, designating him for assignment and ultimately releasing him, according to a report by ESPN's Jesse Rogers. Neris, who had already cleared waivers, failed to deliver on the team's expectations after signing a one-year, $9 million deal last offseason.

Neris, who had been a reliable set-up man for the Astros in the previous season with an impressive 1.71 ERA in 68.1 innings, struggled to find his form on the North Side. With an elevated walk rate and a declining strikeout rate, the right-handed pitcher's performance fell short, resulting in a 3.89 ERA and five blown saves.

With the Cubs lacking a true closer, this decision comes as the team looks to revamp their bullpen. In place of Neris, the club has called up Jack Neely, a lanky reliever obtained from the Yankees in exchange for Mark Leiter Jr. Neely, standing tall at 6'8", showed promise in his recent six scoreless appearances for the Iowa team.

Described by MLB Pipeline as a pitcher who excels at overpowering batters with his effective slider, Neely brings a different dynamic to the Cubs' bullpen. The team hopes that his presence will contribute to their improved second-half performance and reinforce their relief efforts.

The timing of this decision is noteworthy, as the Cubs are set to return to Wrigley Field on Tuesday night to face the Detroit Tigers. The matchup will also mark the return of former Cubs shortstop Javy Baez, who was traded in 2021.

As the Cubs make this shakeup in their bullpen and welcome back a familiar face, they will undoubtedly be looking to regain momentum and solidify their standing in the competitive baseball landscape. The release of Neris and the addition of Neely signal the team's commitment to making strategic moves to bolster their chances of success.