The Chicago Cubs have claimed Rene Rivera off waivers.

In two seasons with the Mets, Rivera had significant value as a reserve. Rivera became the preferred catcher for Noah Syndergaard.

The Mets have also recently given up Curtis Granderson, Jay Bruce, Neil Walker, Lucas Duda and Addison Reed.

The Colorado Rockies have signed Ryan Howard to a minor league contract.

Howard signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves in April and was released after one month.

Howard had an OPS of .710 with 25 home runs in 2016 with the Philadelphia Phillies.