>>Cubs Activate Barney, Release Davis

(Chicago, IL)  --  The Chicago Cubs activated infielder Darwin Barney from the 15-day disabled list and granted pitcher Doug Davis his unconditional release Wednesday.  Barney was placed on the disabled list with a left knee sprain he suffered June 13th against Milwaukee.  Despite missing the past 15 days, the 25-year-old still ranks first among rookies in batting average and multi-hit games, and is tied for first in hits.  Davis had his contract selected by Chicago on May 14th and went 1-and-7 with a 6.50 ERA in nine starts this season.

>>Cardinals Release Franklin

(Baltimore, MD)  --  The Cardinals have parted ways with pitcher Ryan Franklin.  The 38-year-old right-hander struggled much of the season, getting demoted from the closer's role.  He was just 1-and-4 with one save and a gaudy 8.46 ERA.  Franklin blew four saves in 21 appearances and surrendered nine home runs.  Last year, he was 6-and-2 with a 3.46 ERA and saved 27-of-29 opportunities.