Though “Crow-Armstrong” and “Armstrong” are quite plainly different last names, I sure don’t want anyone thinking anything foolish now.
The Chicago Cubs, per the team transaction log, have released reliever Shawn Armstrong. The 34-year-old righty was DFA’d last week to make room for Hayden Wesneski’s return, and was not claimed on waivers.
Tremendously successful last season for the Tampa Bay Rays, and intermittently successful over the decade previous with a number of clubs, Armstrong just wasn’t able to get results this year. The peripherals were decent enough between his time with the Rays, Cardinals, and Cubs, but he was hit harder than usual, and his sizable BABIP reflected it. I think he was overall still worthy of a bullpen job somewhere, but at this late hour, it makes sense that the Cubs would prefer to give those innings to guys who are expected to be around in 2025.
Of course, Armstrong could always return, but I expect that he’s going to find minor league offers this offseason, together with a non-roster invitation to Spring Training, wherever he winds up.