Morgan exercised the opt-out clause in his minor league contract with the Astros over the weekend and will head to free agency in search of a new opportunity. The 32-year-old left-hander allowed three runs on eight hits with a 10/1 K/BB ratio across 8 2/3 innings (nine appearances) at Triple-A Sugar Land. He made 34 relief appearances last year with the Cubs.

The Astros continue to narrow down the major league bullpen going into the season with the pair of cuts. Morgan produced a 4.26 ERA and 28 strikeouts over 25 1/3 innings for the Cubs last season. The 32-year-old left-hander gives Houston some organizational depth should the need arise.

Morgan will provide the Astros with some additional left-handed relief depth this spring and has an opportunity to win a spot in their Opening Day bullpen. The 32-year-old veteran southpaw compiled a solid 4.26 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 28/12 K/BB ratio over 25 1/3 innings (34 appearances) last year with the Cubs.

The Cubs outrighted him off their 40-man roster and Morgan has decided to explore other options. He held a 4.26 ERA and 28/12 K/BB ratio over 25 1/3 innings in 2021.