A couple hours after he was traded to the Yankees, Cubs reliever Mark Leiter Jr. reflected back on his time in Chicago in a heartfelt Instagram post.

The veteran right-hander has been a big part of the Cubs pitching staff over the last 3 seasons, making 143 appearances (including 4 starts).

[WATCH: Jed Hoyer’s press conference following the trade deadline]

Leiter turned in a 3.85 ERA, 1.12 WHIP with 45 holds and 7 saves over that time while transforming from rotation depth to surprise contributor in the bullpen and then from being DFA’d to one of the team’s key relievers.

Here is what Leiter posted on Instagram Tuesday afternoon:

Goodbye Chicago! What an incredible experience it was getting to be a Chicago Cub. It was an honor to call Wrigley Field home. Thank you to the organization for giving me a chance to compete. Thank you to the fans for bringing an amazing energy to every game. Thank you to the coaches and all the staff that doesn’t get credit or spotlight but keeps us on the field and getting better. Thank you to my teammates for embracing me and allowing me to have fun, those memories will last a lifetime. I’m going to miss you all. #GoCubsGo

Leiter was initially a minor-league free agent signing by the Cubs back in December 2021. When he was designated for assignment in January 2023, he went unsigned and eventually returned to the team on another minor-league deal before carving out a high-leverage role in the bullpen.

Prior to his time in Chicago, Leiter had made 48 appearances in the big leagues between the Blue Jays and Phillies. Now he’ll get a chance to show what he can do in New York during a pennant race.

Complete Cubs trade deadline content:

–Why the Cubs decided to move on from Christopher Morel
–Behind the Cubs’ trade deadline strategy – and why Jameson Taillon wasn’t moved
–Cubs players react to trade deadline moves
–Why the Cubs decided to trade Mark Leiter Jr. at the deadline
–A comprehensive look at the Cubs’ 2024 MLB trade deadline moves
–Mark Leiter Jr. shares heartfelt appreciation for Chicago in farewell post
–Cubs trade away Mark Leiter Jr. in deal with Yankees
–In a stunning move, Cubs deal away Christopher Morel in big trade with Rays
–Cubs Weekly Podcast: Breaking down the Cubs’ fascinating – and surprising – deadline moves
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–WATCH: Christopher Morel shares emotional farewell with teammates and coaches in Cubs dugout
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