The Chicago Cubs are in second place in the weak National League Central division, but have little hope of lasting through the 2024 season.

Instead, they have decided to focus on 2025 and beyond and cancel this season.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Cubs took initial steps late Monday to start that process.

“The Chicago Cubs have placed veteran pitcher Drew Smyly on waivers for postseason contenders as they seek a left-handed reliever,” Nightengale tweeted.

Smyly is coming off a solid season as the North Siders’ bullpen player. The 35-year-old left-hander has appeared in 36 games and is 3-6 with a 2.84 ERA.

He would be a solid addition to a team looking to add to their bullpen on the left side. However, if a player is placed on waivers, the team with the lowest bid rate will get him, so it will be interesting to see which teams end up fighting for Smyly.

This season is Smyly’s first full year as a reliever. He made the move last year after starting 23 games for the North Siders, and the numbers have improved significantly since the move.

At 66-66, the Cubs are 10 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers for first place in the NL Central and 5 1/2 games out of the third and final Wild Card spot. At this point, a run is unlikely, so it makes sense for them to put Smyly on the waivers list and see if they can find takers.

There will certainly be some competitors who could find a place on the veteran left-hander’s roster if they want to make the postseason.

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