Levine: Cubs Release Relief Pitcher Jose Veras

By Bruce Levine-

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Former Cubs closer Jose Veras was designated for assignment Tuesday, ending his time in Chicago. The veteran pitcher was a washout from spring training forward.

"We signed a free agent veteran for the bullpen, and it didn't work out," Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer said. "He did throw better the last three or four times out. For us, we have a lot of young guys who are pitching well. We wanted to stick with these guys at this time."

Veras signed a one-year, $4-million contract over the winter with the Cubs to be the closer and possibly be moved for a younger player at the trading deadline. The Cubs were Veras' eighth team and fifth since 2011.

"It is never a fun thing to have to do," Hoyer said the Veras decision. "We feel good about the progress of our young guys in the bullpen."

Veras was 0-1 with an 8.10 ERA in 2014. He was 0-for-2 in save opportunities before losing his job and going on the disabled list.

"Relief pitchers have a certain shelf life," manager Rick Renteria said. "He went out there and kept working, he got better so we are hoping he can latch on with someone. He has been a great influence with our young pitchers."

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.