Brian Matusz Released After Spot Start, Trade Rumors Swirl

According to the Tribune’s Mark Gonzales (by way of The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma), the Cubs have released Brian Matusz after Sunday’s less-than-stellar performance. The former Oriole came to the Cubs replete with unrealized potential, but he also had an opt-out clause they avoided by starting him this weekend. The Cubs were probably hoping for more of a showcase, but instead they got the impetus for a wild comeback win.

As Sharma points out, releasing Matusz opens a roster spot for a potential small trade. However, that spot could also be occupied by Jorge Soler, Tommy La Stella, or Justin Grimm (who was optioned to AAA to make room for Sunday’s starter). Perhaps the Cubs have the former…