Edwards signed a minor-league contract with the Cubs on Thursday, per the MLB transaction log.

EDGE Analysis

Edwards returned to the Cubs on an NRI deal in January, but he opted out of that contract March 23. He'll rejoin Chicago and start out with Triple-A Iowa. As a member of the Nationals last season, Edwards posted a 3.69 ERA, 1.52 WHIP and 24:17 K:BB over 31.2 innings.

The Cubs released Edwards on Saturday, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports.

EDGE Analysis

Manager Craig Counsell confirmed Saturday that Edwards opted out of his minor-league contract. He gave up one earned run on two hits and three walks while striking out six over 6.2 innings in spring training. Edwards could latch on with a team looking for veteran bullpen depth.

Edwards, who tossed a scoreless inning of relief with a strikeout in Saturday's Cactus League game against the Rockies, has a 0.00 ERA across four spring appearances.

EDGE Analysis

Edwards last pitched for the Cubs in 2019, and he was a valuable member of the bullpen for the 2016 World Series winning squad. The righty has bounced around a bit in recent years, but he has a chance to settle into a middle-relief spot with Chicago in 2024. Edwards likely won't have a ton of fantasy value in that role, however.

Edward signed a minor-league contract with the Cubs on Saturday that includes an invitation to spring training, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

It's a return to where Edwards first reached the big leagues and had his most successful seasons. Edwards posted a 3.69 ERA and 24:17 K:BB over 31.2 frames with the Nationals in 2023. He missed the last three months of the season with a shoulder issue but presumably will be healthy heading into camp.

The Nationals transferred Edwards (shoulder) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Monday.

EDGE Analysis

Edwards had been on the 15-day IL since June 21, so his move to the 60-day IL won't affect his timeline for a return but will open up a spot on the 40-man roster for catcher Drew Millas, whose contract was selected from Triple-A Rochester. Though Edwards began began a rehab assignment two weeks ago, he made three appearances before suffering a setback with his right shoulder. He's since been diagnosed with a stress fracture, and it's unclear if he'll be able to pitch again at any point in 2023.

Edwards (shoulder) was shut down indefinitely Wednesday after being diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right scapula, Andrew Golden of The Washington Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

The right-hander was already on the shelf with shoulder inflammation, and he apparently didn't feel right after his minor-league rehab outing over the weekend. It's unclear how long Edwards will be shut down from throwing, but the injury could end his campaign if he's unable to get back to throwing within the next couple weeks.

Edwards (shoulder) started a rehab assignment with the Nationals' Florida Complex League team Monday.

EDGE Analysis

Edwards' first appearance with the FCL Nationals didn't go well, as he allowed three runs while recording just two outs. The veteran reliever has been sidelined since late June with right shoulder inflammation, so he figures to need a few more outings before rejoining the big club.

Edwards (shoulder) is slated for a simulated appearance Friday, Andrew Golden of The Washington Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

That might be the final step before Edwards is cleared to head out on a minor-league rehab assignment. The 31-year-old reliever has been sidelined since June 21 due to right shoulder inflammation.

Edwards (shoulder) resumed throwing earlier this week, Bobby Blanco of MASNSports.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Edwards underwent an MRI last Wednesday, shortly after landing on the injured list, and it confirmed the initial diagnosis of right shoulder inflammation. If all goes well with his side work, he might be an option again for the Nationals' bullpen coming out of the All-Star break.

Edwards (shoulder) was sent for an MRI on his right shoulder Wednesday, Bobby Blanco of MASNSports.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Edwards landed on the 15-day injured list Wednesday afternoon with a diagnosis of right shoulder inflammation, but the imaging scans will provide a clearer overall scope of the issue. The 31-year-old had been shaping up as a strong trade candidate for the Nationals with a 3.69 ERA through 31.2 innings of setup duty. Maybe he can return sometime in July, ahead of the August 1 trade deadline.