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Carl Edwards Jr.
Carl Edwards Jr.
Carl Edwards Jr.
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Carl Fleming Edwards Jr. (born September 3, 1991) is an American professional baseball pitcher in the New York Mets organization. He has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners, Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, Washington Nationals, San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Angels, and Texas Rangers.

Key Information

Career

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Texas Rangers

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Edwards was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 48th round of the 2011 Major League Baseball draft out of Mid-Carolina High School in Prosperity, South Carolina.[1] Edwards initially committed to play college baseball for the Charleston Southern Buccaneers, where he would join a high school teammate and friend, Will Bedenbaugh. However, when Bedenbaugh died in a car accident, Edwards couldn't face the idea of playing for the team where his friend's absence would be glaring, and decided instead to pursue professional baseball.[2][3] He spent his first professional season with the Arizona League Rangers and Spokane Indians. He finished the year 5–3 with a 1.48 earned run average (ERA) and 85 strikeouts over 67 innings pitched. He started the 2013 season with the Hickory Crawdads, going 8–2 with a 1.83 ERA and 122 strikeouts over 93+1⁄3 innings (18 starts).

Chicago Cubs

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On July 22, 2013, Edwards along with Mike Olt, Justin Grimm, and a player to be named later (Neil Ramírez) were traded to the Chicago Cubs for Matt Garza.[4] He was assigned to the High-A Daytona Cubs, where he had a 1.96 ERA and 33 strikeouts over 23 innings (six starts). After the season, he was named MiLB Pitcher of the Year.[5]

Prior to the 2014 season, he was ranked by Baseball America as the 28th best prospect in baseball.[6] He spent the 2014 season with the Double-A Tennessee Smokies, where he compiled a 1–2 record and 2.44 ERA over ten starts. On November 20, 2014, Edwards was added to the Cubs 40-man roster in order to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. He began 2015 with Tennessee, and was promoted to the Triple–A Iowa Cubs in May.

2015 season

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On September 7, 2015, Edwards made his Major League debut for the Cubs against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium.[7] In 36 appearances out of the bullpen between both Tennessee and Iowa prior to his callup, he was 5–3 with a 2.77 ERA and 75 strikeouts over 55+1⁄3 innings.

2016 season

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Edwards began 2016 with Iowa. He was recalled May 11 to Chicago, but returned to Iowa the next day. He was recalled once again on June 20 and spent the rest of the season with Chicago. On September 1, Edwards recorded his first Major League save, against the San Francisco Giants.[8] Edwards finished the 2016 season with a 3.75 ERA in 35 innings pitched.[9]

Carl Edwards Jr. delivers a pitch during the 10th inning of World Series Game 7.

On October 25, Edwards along with teammates Addison Russell, Dexter Fowler, and Jason Heyward became the first African-Americans to play for the Cubs in a World Series game.[10][a] In Game 3, he struck out the side in relief duty in the top of the sixth inning against the Cleveland Indians, becoming the first African-American to pitch for the Cubs in a World Series game.[11] Edwards appeared in the bottom of the 10th inning of Game 7, where he recorded the first two outs of the inning and surrendered one run. The Cubs went on to win their first World Series in 108 years.[12]

2017 season

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Edwards Jr. with the Chicago Cubs in 2017

2017 was Edwards' first full season in the major leagues; he was 5–4 with a 2.98 ERA and 94 strikeouts in 66+1⁄3 relief innings pitched.

Edwards struggled in the division series against the Washington Nationals, pitching 2+1⁄3 innings and allowing six runs.[13] Notably, he allowed a game-tying two-run home run to Bryce Harper in the eighth inning of Game 2.[14] Edwards' performance improved during the league championship series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, again pitching 2+1⁄3 innings, but this time allowing no runs.[13]

2018 season

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In 2018, Edwards posted a 3–2 record and recorded 67 strikeouts and a 2.60 ERA in 52 innings.

2019 season

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Edwards suffered from various injuries in 2019, and struggled from the start of the year.[3] He pitched in four games between March 30 and April 5, recording only five outs. He allowed three hits (two home runs), five walks, and six runs.[15] He was optioned to the Iowa Cubs on April 6 to work through his mechanics.[16] The Cubs recalled Edwards on May 6.[17]

San Diego Padres

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On July 31, 2019, Edwards was traded to the San Diego Padres in exchange for Brad Wieck.[18] Edwards struggled greatly in San Diego, posting a 32.40 ERA in 2 games for the team. On November 4, 2019, he cleared waivers and elected free agency.

Seattle Mariners

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On December 4, 2019, Edwards signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Mariners.[19] In 2020, he allowed 1 run over 5 games, striking out 6.[20] On October 22, 2020, Edwards elected free agency after being outrighted off of the 40-man roster.

Atlanta Braves

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On January 29, 2021, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves organization.[21][22] On March 25, 2021, he opted out of his contract and became a free agent.[23] On April 5, 2021, Edwards re-signed with the Braves on a new minor league contract.[24] On May 7, 2021, Edwards was selected to the active roster.[25] He allowed 3 runs on 3 hits and a walk before being designated for assignment the next day.[26] On May 10, Edwards elected free agency.[27]

Toronto Blue Jays

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On May 14, 2021, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays organization and was assigned to the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons.[28][29] On May 30, Edwards was selected to the active roster.[30] On June 17, he was placed on the 60-day injured list with a left oblique strain.[31] He was released by the organization on August 29, 2021.[13]

Chicago White Sox

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On August 31, 2021, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Chicago White Sox and was assigned to the Triple-A Charlotte Knights.[13] In 10 appearances for Charlotte, he recorded a 2.00 ERA with 15 strikeouts and three saves over nine innings of work. Edwards elected free agency following the season on November 7.[32]

Washington Nationals

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On February 25, 2022, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Washington Nationals.[33] For the 2022 season, Edwards added a change-up to his arsenal. Dominant with the Triple-A Rochester Red Wings, Edwards earned a call-up to the majors, which happened on May 10.[34]

On January 13, 2023, Edwards agreed to a one-year, $2.25 million contract with the Nationals, avoiding salary arbitration.[35] After posting a 3.69 ERA in 32 relief appearances, Edwards was placed on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation on June 21.[36] He began a rehab assignment with the rookie–level Florida Complex League Nationals on August 15.[37] On August 23, Edwards was shut down indefinitely after suffering a stress fracture in his right scapula;[38] he was transferred to the 60–day injured list on August 28.[39] He became a free agent following the season.

Chicago Cubs (second stint)

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On January 26, 2024, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs.[40] He opted out of his deal with the Cubs and became a free agent on March 23[41] and later re-signed with them on April 6 to a new minor league deal.[42] In 20 appearances for the Triple–A Iowa Cubs, he compiled a 1.85 ERA with 22 strikeouts and 7 saves across 24+1⁄3 innings pitched. Edwards was released by the Cubs organization on June 16.[43]

San Diego Padres (second stint)

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On July 4, 2024, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres.[44] Upon joining the organization, he began working primarily as a starting pitcher.[45] On August 8, the Padres selected Edwards' contract, adding him to their active roster.[46] He made one appearance for the Padres, issuing two walks and allowing one hit while recording no outs. Edwards was designated for assignment by San Diego on August 12.[47] He cleared waivers and was sent outright to the Triple–A El Paso Chihuahuas on August 14,[48] but rejected the assignment in favor of free agency.[49] Edwards re-signed with the Padres on a new minor league contract on August 19.[50] He elected free agency following the season on November 4.[51]

Los Angeles Angels

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On March 11, 2025, Edwards signed with the Tigres de Quintana Roo of the Mexican League.[52] However prior to the start of the season on March 21, he signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Angels.[53] After seven appearances for the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees, the Angels selected Edwards' contract, adding him to their active roster.[54] In two games for the Angels, he allowed three runs on four hits with two strikeouts over three innings pitched. Edwards was designated for assignment by the team on April 26.[55] He cleared waivers and was sent outright to Salt Lake on April 28.[56] However, Edwards rejected the assignment and elected free agency on April 30.[57]

Tigres de Quintana Roo

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On May 5, 2025, Edwards signed with the Tigres de Quintana Roo of the Mexican League.[58] In 14 starts for Quintana Roo, Edwards compiled a 5-2 record and 3.38 ERA with 60 strikeouts across 74+2⁄3 innings pitched.

Texas Rangers (second stint)

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On July 22, 2025, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers organization.[59] In eight appearances (seven starts) for the Triple-A Round Rock Express, he posted a 2-1 record and 5.31 ERA with 44 strikeouts over 39 innings of work. On September 7, the Rangers selected Edwards' contract, adding him to their active roster.[60] He made two scoreless appearances for Texas, recording four strikeouts across three innings pitched. Edwards was designated for assignment by the Rangers on September 19; he cleared waivers and was sent outright to Round Rock on September 23.[61] He elected free agency on October 6.[62]

New York Mets

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On December 8, 2025, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets.[63][64]

Personal life

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Edwards and his fiancée, Anquinette Smith, welcomed their first child in August 2015, and their second in July 2018.[65] Edwards and Anquinette married in 2021.[66]

Miscellaneous

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Edwards was sometimes known as "C.J." (for Carl Jr.[3]) in the minor leagues, a name which Joe Maddon continued to use while the two were with the Cubs.[67] Edwards also earned the nickname "The String Bean Slinger" for his strong arm combined with his skinny physique (6' 3", 170 lbs),[68] which he has adopted for the back of his personalized jersey during the annual Players Weekend.[69][66][3]

Notes

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Carl Edwards Jr.

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Carl Edwards Jr. (born September 3, 1991) is an American professional baseball relief pitcher who is currently a . A right-handed thrower standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 165 pounds, he earned the nickname "Stringbean Slinger" for his lanky frame and high-velocity , which has been clocked up to 98 mph. Edwards was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 48th round of the MLB Draft out of Mid-Carolina High School in , , signing as a late-round project due to his slight build at the time. Acquired by the Chicago Cubs in the 2013 trade that sent to , he progressed through the minors as a top prospect, posting a 2.03 ERA and 11.5 strikeouts per nine innings over 292 innings before his major league debut. He made his MLB debut with the Cubs on September 7, 2015, and became a key arm in 2016, appearing in 36 regular-season games with a 3.75 ERA and 8 postseason games (2.84 ERA) while contributing to the team's championship that year. Over his MLB career spanning 300 games through the 2025 season, Edwards has compiled a 16-14 record, a 3.60 , 334 strikeouts in 291⅓ innings, seven saves, and 56 holds, establishing himself as a reliable late-inning reliever. His standout season came in 2017 with the Cubs, where he pitched in 73 games, recorded a 2.98 , and notched 25 holds. Edwards has played for eight MLB teams, including stints with the Cubs (2015–2019), Padres (2019, 2024), Mariners (2020), (2021), Toronto Blue Jays (2021), (2022–2023), (2025), and Texas Rangers (2025). Injuries limited his play in some years, but he rebounded in 2022 with the Nationals, posting a 2.76 in 57 appearances. In 2025, he pitched for the Tigres de of the Mexican League before appearing in four games across the Angels and Rangers on contracts and electing free agency on October 6.

Early life and amateur career

Early life

Carl Edwards Jr. was born on September 3, 1991, in , and raised in the nearby rural community of . His father, Carl Edwards Sr., played for three seasons at before working a and continuing to play recreationally in local leagues such as the Newberry Pirates. Edwards Sr. introduced his son to baseball at around age five, starting with casual throwing sessions in their backyard, where he emphasized accuracy by instructing young Carl to "hit the target." This early guidance fostered Edwards Jr.'s passion for the sport, as the family placed a strong emphasis on baseball, with multiple relatives participating in recreational leagues and the semi-professional Bush Leagues around Newberry. Edwards Sr. often came home from work to play catch or join games, modeling dedication and keeping the family's involvement in the local baseball scene alive. During his childhood, Edwards Jr. faced significant challenges, including the tragic death of his best friend and Little League teammate, Will Bedenbaugh, in a car accident in December 2010. The loss deeply affected him, serving as a pivotal motivation to pursue professional baseball as a way to honor Bedenbaugh's memory rather than attend college. Prior to the tragedy, Edwards Jr. had committed to play college baseball at Charleston Southern University, partly to continue playing alongside his close friend.

Amateur career

Edwards attended Mid-Carolina High School in , , where he developed as a standout on the varsity team. During his high school career, he demonstrated strong control with a in the mid-80s, compiling a record of 4 wins as a sophomore, 12 as a junior, and 8 as a senior. Notable performances included striking out 16 batters in a single game against Saluda and pitching a one-hit against Chesnee in the Upper State finals. In the , Edwards was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 48th round, 1,464th overall, out of Mid-Carolina High School. He had initially committed to play at alongside his best friend and catcher, Will Bedenbaugh. However, following Bedenbaugh's in a car accident in December 2010, Edwards chose not to attend college, as the reminder would have been too painful, and instead signed with the Rangers on August 15, 2011, for a $50,000 bonus to pursue a professional career in honor of his friend.

Playing style and attributes

Physical characteristics

Carl Edwards Jr. stands at 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs approximately 165 pounds, giving him a notably slender and wiry build that has been a defining aspect of his physical profile throughout his career. This lean frame, often described as rail-thin, drew attention from scouts early on, with his high school weight listed at just 150 pounds upon signing with the Texas Rangers in 2011. His physique inspired the nickname "String Bean Slinger," which originated during his first full professional season in 2012 with the , a Rangers affiliate, after a broadcaster likened his thin frame to a string bean while noting his ability to sling fastballs with power. Edwards embraced the moniker, wearing "Stringbean Slinger" on the back of his jersey during MLB events in 2018 with the Chicago Cubs and in 2019 with the San Diego Padres. In the , he was commonly known as "C.J.," a nickname that Chicago Cubs manager continued to use after Edwards' acquisition in the 2013 trade for . Early in his career, Edwards faced challenges related to his slight build, particularly concerns about durability and sustaining a pitching workload, prompting structured efforts to gain weight and muscle. The Rangers placed him on a 6,000-calorie daily diet, including high-calorie shakes made with and Oreos, which helped him add about 20 pounds over his first few professional years, reaching around 170 pounds by 2015. The Cubs later emphasized weight training to further enhance his strength without altering his natural leanness.

Pitching repertoire

Carl Edwards Jr. employs a compact yet effective pitching arsenal centered on a and a , which form the core of his pitching approach earlier in his career. His typically averages 95-97 mph and has reached speeds up to 98 mph, delivering exceptional ride and spin rates that contribute to its swing-and-miss potential. The , thrown at 84-88 mph, complements the by providing sharp lateral break and depth, often used to induce weak contact or whiffs against both right- and left-handed batters. He occasionally mixes in a at around 88-89 mph to disrupt timing, particularly against opposite-handed hitters, though it remains a tertiary offering in his . Edwards relies heavily on the fastball-slider combination to generate swings and misses, leveraging the gap and movement contrast for deception in high-leverage situations. This two-pitch mix has been pivotal to his role as a setup reliever, where he emphasizes explosive and precise location to limit hard contact. His throwing mechanics feature an overhand right-handed delivery with clean arm action, allowing for efficient energy transfer. At 6 feet 3 inches tall, Edwards benefits from long levers that enhance his extension—averaging about 6.8 feet—creating deceptive angles and perceived from the batter's perspective. Over the course of his career, Edwards has evolved his approach by increasing his usage in later seasons to improve command and effectiveness against left-handed batters, reducing walks and enhancing overall control. He has also experimented occasionally with a , typically in the low 80s mph range, as a variation to further diversify his breaking pitches, though it has not become a staple. As of the 2025 season, his has incorporated more cutter usage at 93 mph alongside a at 79 mph and at 89 mph, with averaging 93.1 mph. This refinement has solidified his profile as a high-leverage reliever focused on velocity-driven deception rather than a broad array of offerings.

Professional career

Texas Rangers minors (2011–2013)

Carl Edwards Jr. was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 48th round (1,464th overall) of the out of Mid-Carolina High School in , , and signed with the team for a $50,000 bonus on August 15, 2011. He was immediately assigned to the Rookie-level League Rangers, where he made his professional debut that summer in limited action. In 2012, Edwards progressed to short-season ball, splitting time between the League Rangers (3–0, 0.00 ERA, 20 , 25 strikeouts) and the of the (2–3, 2.11 ERA, 47 , 60 strikeouts). Across both stops, he finished 5–3 with a 1.48 ERA, allowing just 41 hits while striking out 85 batters in 67 total innings. During this early phase of his professional career, Edwards focused on physical development to address his lanky frame, following a high-calorie regimen prescribed by the Rangers organization that helped him gain approximately 20 pounds. This contributed to gains in velocity, which climbed into the mid-90s mph range, while his control also sharpened, as he limited opponents to a walk rate of about 3.4 per nine innings in 2012. Edwards opened the 2013 season with the High-A of the , excelling with an 8–2 record, 1.83 , and 122 strikeouts in 93 1/3 innings over 16 starts. On July 22, 2013, he was traded to the Chicago Cubs along with pitchers and first baseman Mike Olt in exchange for and cash considerations.

Chicago Cubs (2013–2019)

Edwards was acquired by the Chicago Cubs from the Texas Rangers on July 22, 2013, in the trade that sent starting pitcher to . Following the trade, Edwards finished the 2013 minor league season with the Daytona Cubs, where he posted a 1.96 over 23 in six appearances. In 2014, he transitioned to a starting role with the Double-A Tennessee Smokies, compiling a 2.44 in 48 across 10 games despite dealing with some injuries that limited his workload. Edwards continued his development in 2015, beginning the year in Double-A with the Tennessee Smokies, where he recorded a 2.77 in 55 over 11 appearances, before earning a promotion to Triple-A in May. There, he excelled with a 1.93 in 46.2 across 17 outings, showcasing his potential as a high-leverage reliever. He made his major league debut on September 7, 2015, against the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field, entering in the eighth inning and retiring the side in order with a double play and a groundout. In five relief appearances that September, Edwards went 0-0 with a 3.86 over 4.2 , striking out four batters. The 2016 season emerged as Edwards' breakout campaign, establishing him as a trusted in the Cubs' . Appearing in 36 games, he logged 36.2 s with a 3.75 , 54 strikeouts, and 11 holds, while relying heavily on his fastball-slider combination for swing-and-miss effectiveness. Edwards played a pivotal role in the Cubs' postseason, contributing to their victory over the Cleveland Indians. In the Fall Classic, he appeared in three games, including a high-pressure scoreless 10th in Game 7 on November 2, where he struck out and allowed just a single to before being relieved, helping secure the 8-7 win and Chicago's first championship since 1908. Overall in the 2016 , he pitched 5.1 innings with a 5.06 across seven appearances. Building on his momentum, Edwards set career highs in 2017 with 73 relief outings, a 2.98 over 66.1 , 94 strikeouts, and 25 holds, solidifying his status as a core piece during the Cubs' successful regular season. The following year, 2018, brought challenges as Edwards dealt with right shoulder inflammation that landed him on the in late May, though he returned later in the season to make 58 appearances overall. He still delivered a strong 2.60 in 52 , with 67 strikeouts and 23 holds, demonstrating resilience amid the setback. In 2019, Edwards faced inconsistencies, posting a 5.87 in 20 games and 15.1 for the Cubs before being optioned to Triple-A in early to work on his command. He was recalled multiple times, including after a rehab stint, but appeared in only a handful more games with that season. Across his initial five seasons with the Cubs from 2015 to 2019, Edwards made 192 relief appearances, accumulating a 3.40 in 174.1 with 234 strikeouts and 80 holds.

San Diego Padres (2019)

On July 31, 2019, the Padres acquired Edwards from the Cubs in exchange for left-handed reliever Brad Wieck, along with $500,000 to offset the remaining portion of Edwards's salary. Edwards, who had been dealing with a shoulder injury earlier in the season with the Cubs, made his debut with the Padres on August 10 against the Colorado Rockies, allowing three runs without recording an out. He appeared in two games total for that month, posting a 32.40 over 1.2 with four walks and two strikeouts. Edwards's limited role stemmed from ongoing recovery efforts related to his pitching . On August 13, 2019, the Padres placed him on the 10-day with a strained right , sidelining him for the remainder of the major league season. He underwent rehabilitation assignments in the with the Triple-A but did not return to MLB action in 2019. Following the season, the Padres designated Edwards for assignment on November 1, 2019, and attempted to outright him to the minors. He cleared waivers on November 4 and elected free agency rather than accepting the assignment.

Seattle Mariners (2020)

On December 4, 2019, Edwards signed a one-year, $950,000 contract with the Seattle Mariners as a free agent following his release from the San Diego Padres. Edwards made his debut with the Mariners on July 25, 2020, in the pandemic-shortened 60-game season. In five relief appearances, he posted a 1.93 over 4⅔ , allowing one earned run while striking out six batters. His outings included a save on August 5 against the , where he retired the side in order in the ninth inning. However, Edwards's opportunities were limited by a crowded and an injury. On August 10, he was placed on the 10-day with a right strain, retroactive to August 7, and did not return for the remainder of the season. The Mariners' relief corps featured established arms like and Matt Magill, contributing to his sparse usage in the condensed schedule. Following the season, the Mariners outrighted Edwards to Triple-A Tacoma on , 2020, after removing him from the 40-man roster; he elected free agency the same day rather than accepting the assignment.

Atlanta Braves (2021)

Following his release by the Seattle Mariners after the 2020 season, Edwards entered free agency. On January 29, 2021, Edwards signed a contract with the that included an invitation to . He performed well in camp, posting a 1.06 over 8 1/3 s with eight strikeouts, but opted out of the deal on March 25 as the regular season approached. The Braves quickly re-signed him to another contract on 5, assigning him to Triple-A Gwinnett. There, he made one relief appearance on an unspecified date in or early May, allowing no runs over 1 while striking out three. The Braves added Edwards to their 40-man roster and selected his contract from Gwinnett on May 7, 2021, promoting him to the major league bullpen. He made his only appearance with the team that evening against the Philadelphia Phillies, entering in the eighth inning of a 9-2 loss with two outs. Edwards struggled immediately, surrendering three consecutive hits—including a two-run to —along with one walk, allowing three earned runs in just 0.1 innings while recording one . The next day, May 8, the Braves designated him for assignment to clear a roster spot for pitcher Jasseel de la Cruz.

Toronto Blue Jays (2021)

Following his designation for assignment by the earlier in the season, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Blue Jays on May 14, 2021. The Blue Jays selected his contract from Triple-A Buffalo and added him to the major league roster on May 30. Edwards made six relief appearances for in June 2021, compiling a 0–0 record and a 6.75 across 5⅓ . In those outings, he surrendered eight hits and four earned runs—including two home runs—while issuing two walks and recording five strikeouts, reflecting ongoing command issues in a high-leverage role. On June 17, Edwards was placed on the 10-day with a left oblique strain after exiting his final appearance early due to discomfort. He completed rehab assignments with affiliate teams in July and August but did not return to the majors. The Blue Jays released Edwards on August 29, 2021, concluding his brief tenure with the organization and opening the door for his next professional opportunity.

Chicago White Sox (2021)

Following his release from the Toronto Blue Jays on August 29, 2021, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the two days later and was assigned to their Triple-A affiliate, the . During his brief stint with Charlotte from late August through the end of the season, Edwards appeared in 20 games, compiling a 2.37 over 19 . He demonstrated strong command by issuing just 4 walks while recording 30 strikeouts and securing 3 saves, helping to stabilize the Knights' late in the year. Edwards elected free agency on November 7, 2021, concluding his time in the White Sox organization without advancing to the major league roster.

Washington Nationals (2022–2023)

Following his departure from the as a , Edwards signed a minor league contract with the on March 8, 2022. His contract was selected from Triple-A Rochester on May 10, 2022, and he made his debut with the Nationals that day. In 57 appearances during the 2022 season, Edwards posted a 6–3 record with a 2.76 over 62 , recording 56 strikeouts and limiting opponents to a .216 . He emerged as a reliable middle reliever, earning 13 holds and contributing to the Nationals' stability amid a rebuilding phase. Edwards re-signed with the Nationals on January 13, 2023, agreeing to a one-year, $2.25 million to avoid salary . He began the 2023 season in the majors and appeared in 32 outings before encountering health issues, compiling a 1–3 record with a 3.69 in 31⅔ innings, including 24 strikeouts and 13 holds. On June 20, 2023, he was placed on the 15-day due to right . A subsequent on August 23 revealed a in his right , leading to an indefinite shutdown from throwing activities. The Nationals transferred him to the 60-day on August 28, 2023, effectively ending his season. Edwards elected free agency on November 2, 2023.

Chicago Cubs second stint (2024)

After electing free agency from the in November 2023, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs on January 26, 2024, including an invitation to . He spent time with Triple-A , posting a 1.93 ERA over 46 1/3 innings in 26 outings (six starts) with seven saves and 45 strikeouts as of mid-June 2024. Edwards was released by the Cubs organization in mid-June 2024 without making any major league appearances during the stint.

San Diego Padres second stint (2024)

After being released by the Cubs organization in mid-June 2024, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Padres on July 5, 2024, marking his return to the organization for a second stint following his brief 2019 appearance. He began rehabilitation and conditioning work with the rookie-level Padres before being promoted to Triple-A on July 4, where he made several relief outings to build up his pitch count after missing time earlier in the season due to a in his shin. In five appearances with El Paso, Edwards posted a 2.25 ERA over 4 innings, striking out five while walking three, showing signs of regaining form as a middle reliever. On August 8, 2024, the Padres selected Edwards' contract from Triple-A, adding him to the major league roster amid injuries in the bullpen during a tight National League West race. In his lone major league outing that day against the Miami Marlins, Edwards entered in the ninth inning of a 6-2 win but struggled immediately, allowing a single and two walks without recording an out before manager Mike Shildt turned to closer Robert Suarez to secure the victory. This appearance highlighted ongoing command issues, as Edwards failed to throw a strike in his brief time on the mound. The Padres designated Edwards for assignment on August 12, 2024, to activate right-hander from the 60-day , ending his major league return after just four days. He cleared waivers and was outrighted to El Paso on August 14 but elected free agency later that day rather than accepting the assignment. Undeterred, the Padres re-signed Edwards to another contract on August 19, 2024, allowing him to continue pitching in Triple-A as the team pushed for the playoffs. Edwards made four more appearances with the Chihuahuas down the stretch, compiling a 6.75 over 5.1 innings with six strikeouts and four walks, but he did not factor into the Padres' postseason roster during their run against the . Edwards' contract expired after the 2024 season, leading to free agency on November 4, 2024, as the Padres opted not to tender him a major league deal amid a crowded . His second stint with , though brief and primarily minor-league focused, provided a platform for recovery from injury but did not result in sustained major league contributions during the team's competitive campaign.

Los Angeles Angels (2025)

Following his free agency from the San Diego Padres in November 2024, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Angels on March 21, 2025. The deal included an invitation to spring training, where he competed for a spot in the bullpen amid the team's search for veteran relief depth. Edwards began the season with the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees, where he recorded a 1.54 ERA over 11⅔ innings in seven appearances, striking out 14 batters while issuing five walks. His strong minor league performance prompted the Angels to select his contract on April 23, 2025, adding him to the major league roster as part of a bullpen shakeup. In his Angels debut against the Pittsburgh Pirates that day, he pitched a scoreless inning, allowing one hit, one walk, and striking out one. On April 25 against the Minnesota Twins, he allowed three hits and two earned runs over two innings with one strikeout, including a home run. Over two appearances, Edwards posted a 9.00 ERA and 1.33 WHIP in 3 innings. On April 26, 2025, the Angels designated him for assignment to clear a roster spot for Jose Fermin, citing the need for more consistent options early in the season. Edwards cleared waivers and accepted an outright assignment to on April 29, 2025, but with his options exhausted after multiple prior assignments, he elected free agency shortly thereafter rather than reporting. This marked the end of his short-lived attempt to reestablish himself in MLB, paving the way for his subsequent move to international .

Tigres de Quintana Roo (2025)

Following his release from the organization in late April 2025, Carl Edwards Jr. signed with the Tigres de of the Mexican League on May 5, 2025. In 2025, Edwards transitioned to a starting role with Tigres, making 14 starts and compiling a 5-2 record with a 3.38 ERA, allowing 68 hits and six home runs while walking 24 and striking out 60 over 74 2/3 innings. He was placed on the reserve list on July 18 and released by the team on July 21, 2025. Edwards encountered some difficulties adjusting to the unique demands of international baseball in the Mexican League, including differences in pitching conditions and competition style. Motivated by a desire to rebuild his velocity and command, he viewed the stint as a stepping stone to re-establishing himself for a potential return to .

Texas Rangers second stint (2025)

Following his release from the Tigres de Quintana Roo in July 2025, Edwards signed a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers on July 22, providing the veteran reliever an opportunity to rejoin the organization where he began his professional career. He was immediately assigned to the Rangers' Triple-A affiliate, the Round Rock Express, where he made eight appearances (seven starts) and posted a 5.31 ERA before earning a late-season promotion. On September 7, 2025, the Rangers selected Edwards' contract from Round Rock, adding him to the 40-man roster as they sought depth down the stretch. In two relief outings on September 15 and 16 against the Houston Astros, he pitched three scoreless innings, allowing no hits while striking out four and walking two. However, with roster adjustments needed amid the playoff push, the Rangers designated Edwards for assignment on September 19, 2025. He cleared waivers and was outrighted to Round Rock on September 23, but instead of accepting the assignment, Edwards elected free agency on October 7, 2025, concluding his brief second stint with the Rangers organization. Over his 11-season MLB career spanning 300 appearances exclusively as a reliever, Edwards compiled a 3.67 ERA with 16 wins, 14 losses, seven saves, and 334 strikeouts in 331 1/3 innings pitched.

Personal life

Family background

Carl Edwards Jr. grew up in a baseball-centric family in rural Prosperity, South Carolina, where his father, Carl Edwards Sr., played a pivotal role in nurturing his passion for the sport. Edwards Sr., who had competed in college baseball at Allen University, pitched in local men's leagues and participated in the informal "Bush Leagues" around Newberry, often alongside his son. This shared involvement fostered a deep bond, with young Edwards frequently joining his father, uncle, and extended relatives on the field, learning the fundamentals through casual games in what locals called the "Sandlot League." Edwards' extended family further reinforced this environment, with uncles like serving as his in early games and cousins also pursuing , including some drafted by MLB teams. He has a younger brother, , with whom he shared a competitive upbringing, as their parents, and Carl Sr., made it a priority to attend their sons' games whenever possible. This familial network provided consistent encouragement during Edwards' formative years, emphasizing and resilience amid the challenges of small-town athletics. Despite his notably slender frame—standing 6 feet 3 inches but weighing just 150 pounds in high school—Edwards received unwavering support from his , who focused on his talent and work ethic rather than physical appearance. His father's own experiences in local leagues modeled persistence, helping Edwards overcome doubts about his build as he progressed from his status as a late-round draft pick to a Major League career. Family members, including Sr., actively participated in his development, reinforcing that dedication trumped physique in achieving success. In interviews, Edwards has highlighted the core instilled by his parents, particularly respect for others and , which guided his approach to and life. These principles, drawn from his upbringing, continue to influence his perspective on perseverance and community, even as he navigates the demands of .

Marriage and children

Carl Edwards Jr. married Anquinette Smith on November 6, 2021, in , at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate. The couple has three children: a , Ava, born in August 2015; a son, Carl III (known as Tre), born in July 2018; and a son, Cade Josiah, born in October 2023. Edwards has credited his family with providing crucial motivation during career challenges, particularly emphasizing his drive to succeed so his children can witness his achievements on the field. In early 2023, following a strong performance season, he highlighted how his wife and children bolstered his resilience amid injuries and external criticism, reminding him to focus beyond online detractors. The demands of Major League Baseball's extensive travel schedule present ongoing challenges for Edwards in maintaining family connections, yet he prioritizes leaving professional frustrations at the to ensure a positive home environment. Anquinette's unwavering encouragement has been instrumental in supporting his overall , helping him navigate both physical conditioning and emotional pressures throughout his .

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