Cubs release reliever Carl Edwards Jr., infielder Dominic Smith

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Sunday, March 24, 2024

MESA, Ariz. -- The Chicago Cubs released reliever Carl Edwards Jr. and infielder Dominic Smith on Sunday.

Edwards and Smith were in camp on minor league contracts.

The 32-year-old Edwards was trying to make the Cubs' roster again after he broke into the majors with the team in 2015. He spent the past two years with Washington, going 7-6 with four saves and a 3.07 ERA in 89 appearances.

Edwards missed most of last season after he was placed on the injured list in June with right shoulder inflammation. But he looked healthy in spring training, posting a 1.35 ERA in 6 2/3 innings over seven appearances.

Smith played for Washington last season, hitting .254 with 12 homers and 46 RBIs in a career-best 153 games. He batted .346 (9-for-26) in nine Cactus League games with Chicago this year.

The Cubs have 34 players -- 16 pitchers, four catchers, seven infielders, six outfielders and one infielder/outfielder -- remaining in major league camp. They visit the Texas Rangers in their season opener on Thursday.