Now there’s one I’ve never seen before. In between games today, the Cubs decided that was that for outfielder Steven Souza Jr., who started the first game, struggled again, and has now been designated for assignment.
The Cubs arguably needed another arm for the bullpen game after three relievers had to go earlier, which makes you wonder if this was always the plan or if they would’ve figured out something else if Souza hadn’t looked awful in Game One. Because they already had an arm available at the ready in Chicago:
Cubs DFA Souza between games.
Tyson Miller recalled from South Bend to take roster spot for Game 2 tonight.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) September 6, 2020
With the arrivals of Cameron Maybin and Jose Martinez at the Trade Deadline, Souza’s spot on the roster had already become tenuous. He came back from his hamstring injury, but as a guy who basically hasn’t faced live big league pitching in big league games for two years, he just wasn’t going to look right by the time the season ended. Or so the Cubs clearly decided when they needed a roster spot, even if it came between doubleheader games.
They now have seven days to waive or release Souza. It’s conceivable he’ll accept an assignment to the South Bend site after clearing waivers. At that point, he’s depth after depth.
Souza brought great energy to the team and a serious comeback story, but unfortunately he wasn’t able to contribute. Hope for the best for him going forward, including potentially returning to the Cubs in Spring Training next year, perhaps on a minor league deal?