Ryan was released in late August after posting a lackluster 4.88 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 35/29 K/BB ratio across 48 innings (39 appearances) for Triple-A Memphis. The 30-year-old lefty signed a minor league contract with the Cardinals last offseason and has made 190 career relief appearances since 2014.

Ryan, 30, pitched well for the Cubs in 2019 before struggling the last two seasons. He'll give the Cards another left-handed option for their bullpen.

Ryan chose to test the open market after being outrighted off the Cubs' 40-man roster. The southpaw has allowed 10 earned runs in 13 1/3 innings with the Cubs this season. 

This move frees up a 40-man roster spot for Austin Romine, who is back from the 60-day IL. Ryan had surrendered 10 earned runs in 13 1/3 innings of work this season with Chicago.