Former Chicago Cubs reliever Carl Edwards Jr., a member of the franchise's 2016 World Series championship team, has become a free agent, according to reports on Thursday.
The right-hander, who wore number 6 for the Cubs, appeared in 31 games during the 2016 regular season and made four postseason appearances as Chicago captured its first title since 1908. Edwards also pitched in the 2017 and 2018 seasons for the Cubs before being traded to the San Diego Padres in a deal that brought left-hander Brad Wieck to Chicago.
A file photo from April 13, 2018 shows Edwards delivering a pitch against the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field, where the Cubs fell 4-0. Since departing Chicago, Edwards has pitched for multiple organizations including the Padres, Seattle Mariners, Toronto Blue Jays, and most recently the Washington Nationals' minor league system.
The 32-year-old's free agency opens the door for a potential return to a major league roster ahead of the 2027 season.
