The Cubs have decided to release closer B.J. Ryan from his minor league contract after just 5 2/3 innings pitched for the Triple-A Iowa Cubs. The Cubs added Ryan with the intention of giving manager Lou Piniella more options versus lefties. However, Ryan felt that his velocity and sharpness would not get back to major league form and asked for his release. After adding John Grabow and Tom Gorzelanny on the trade deadline, holding onto the once All-Star closer who could not top 90 on his fastball would only have hurt the Cubs' chances down the stretch.
Ryan will likely search for another job but will likely struggle now that the Blue Jays and Cubs have passed on him. Still, do not rule out a fringe team from giving him an opportunity to build up his velocity for the 2010 season.