Cubs grant veteran IF Jonathan Villar unconditional release

Jonathan Villar will look to continue his MLB career elsewhere. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Cubs grant veteran infielder Jonathan Villar unconditional release

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 6/29/22

The Chicago Cubs granted infielder Jonathan Villar an unconditional release from the team this week, multiple sources reported.

The 31-year-old signed a one-year deal with the team in March and was designated for assignment on June 24 to make room for David Bote. Villar's subsequent release was expected, assuming the veteran would not be receptive to a stint in the minor leagues.

Jonathan Villar has been granted his unconditional release from #Cubs, team announces.

Villar, who was designated for assignment June 24, hit .222/.271/.327 in 46 games. Cubs had signed him in March to a one-year deal worth $6 million with a mutual option for next season.
— Meghan Montemurro (@M_Montemurro) June 29, 2022

While Villar remains a solid defensive player, he struggled for Chicago through the first few months of the season. He registered just 34 hits in 153 at-bats and leaves Chicago with a slash line of .222/.271/.327.

Villar can now be pursued by other teams. As of Wednesday afternoon, he had not been connected to any other ball clubs yet.

More must-reads: