BREAKING: The Chicago Cubs have just announced a significant move to bolster their bullpen, agreeing to a two-year contract with right-handed reliever Phil Maton. This deal, which includes a third-year club option, underscores the team’s commitment to rebuilding one of the weakest areas of their roster.
Multiple reports confirmed the agreement late Friday night, although specific financial terms remain undisclosed. The Cubs are taking a rare step by offering a multi-year contract to a reliever, indicating their high regard for the 32-year-old pitcher, who brings nine years of major league experience across seven organizations.
Last season, Maton showcased his talent with a stellar 2.35 ERA while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals. Midway through the season, he was traded to the Texas Rangers, where he maintained a solid performance with a 3.52 ERA and an impressive strikeout rate that surged from 30.4% to 36.7% in the final months. Notably, he held opponents to a mere .179 batting average during his time in Texas, finishing the season with a career-best 2.79 ERA.
Maton’s pitching style may not rely on overwhelming velocity—his cutter averages just 90.6 mph—but he utilizes a diverse four-pitch arsenal that keeps hitters guessing. This strategic approach will be crucial as the Cubs aim to enhance their bullpen, which is undergoing a near-complete overhaul.
Currently, the Cubs’ bullpen is largely untested, with only young right-handers Daniel Palencia and Porter Hodge returning as full-time relievers who logged at least 15 innings last season. While neither player spent the entire year in the major leagues, Palencia served as the closer for much of the season, showcasing potential that the Cubs are keen to develop further.
As the Cubs prepare for the upcoming season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Maton’s addition impacts the team’s performance on the mound. The Cubs are not just looking to fill roster spots; they are actively seeking to create a competitive edge through strategic signings like that of Maton.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and the Cubs finalize their roster ahead of the new season.
