As the Spring went on, it became quite clear that Felix Doubront – for whatever reason – was not seriously being considered for the rotation. And then, as Spring went further on, it became relatively clear that he wasn’t being considered for much of a significant role, even in the bullpen, at all.

So today’s news that the Chicago Cubs have released Felix Doubront is not a huge surprise. Without any minor league options left, the Cubs were probably going to have to go this route if there wasn’t a trade to be had anyway.

By releasing Doubront today, the Cubs owe him just 45 days termination pay on the $1.925 million deal he signed (arbitration-level contracts are not entirely guaranteed) before the season. Thus, the Cubs will save about $1.45 million with this move, which is apparently more than they could have recouped in any kind of trade.

Doubront, 27, is now a free agent. The Cubs took a flier on him last year – it cost shortstop prospect Marco Hernandez – and it didn’t work out.

The Cubs’ Spring roster is now down to 38 after the Doubront release and the Eric Jokisch option.