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Despite breaking the longest curse in sports with their nail-biting World Series win last season, all is not well in the Chicago Cubs' clubhouse.On Tuesday night after allowing seven steals in 6-1 loss to the Nationals, Cubs catcher Miguel Montero had harsh words for Jake Arrieta, and placed the blame for the flurry of stolen bases squarely on his starting pitcher's shoulders.
"My pitchers don't hold anybody on," said Montero. "It's tough because it doesn't matter how much work I put on footwork and throwing and everything, because if I don't get a chance to throw - that's the reason they were running left and right today, because they know he was slow to the plate. Simple as that."
Montero's comments were reportedly not appreciated by teammates, with ESPN Chicago saying Anthony Rizzo had some particularly pointed critiques for the catcher.
Just hours later, ESPN Chicago's Jesse Rogers reported that Montero would be designated for assignment, meaning he will likely be released if no other team claims him in the next ten days. The Cubs are calling up Iowa Cubs catcher Victor Caratini to take his slot on the roster.
It's safe to assume Montero is gone for good, with the catcher saying his goodbyes to the Windy City in a series of tweets.
It's been a whirlwind 24 hours for the Cubs organization, and team will do their best to find a bit of stability Wednesday night as they prepare to face off against the Nationals again.
The Cubs currently find themselves in second place in the NL Central, just one game behind the Milwaukee Brewers.
Rizzo on Miggy's comments:
"When you point fingers you're a selfish player. We have another catcher that throws everyone out."
- ESPN 1000 (@ESPN1000) June 28, 2017Source: Miguel Montero to be DFA'd
- Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiCubs) June 28, 2017To the city of Chicago
Dear fans, today I say goodbye to the greatest fans. I want to thank you for the support.
- Miguel Montero (@miggymont26) June 28, 2017It was an awesome ride. Winning the World Series was simply fantastic. Thank you to my teammates - good luck to everyone of you.
- Miguel Montero (@miggymont26) June 28, 2017Thank you also to each staff member, it was an honor to play for the Chicago Cubs organization.
Chicago will always be in my heart
- Miguel Montero (@miggymont26) June 28, 2017