UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs are making significant moves to revamp their bullpen, officially signing right-handed reliever Phil Maton to a two-year contract with a third-year club option. This urgent development comes as the Cubs aim to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2024 MLB season.
According to multiple reports confirmed late Friday night, the terms of the deal beyond the two years remain unclear. However, the Cubs’ decision to commit to Maton, a seasoned pitcher with nine years of Major League experience across seven different organizations, highlights their confidence in his abilities.
Last season, Maton showcased his talent with a remarkable 2.35 ERA while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals before being traded to the Texas Rangers at the deadline. While his ERA rose to 3.52 with the Rangers, he significantly improved his strikeout rate from 30.4% to an impressive 36.7% in the final months of the season. Notably, he held opponents to a mere .179 batting average, finishing the year with a career-best 2.79 ERA.
Maton’s pitching style is not defined by speed—his cutter averages 90.6 mph—but rather by his ability to effectively mix a four-pitch arsenal that keeps hitters off balance. This strategic approach is crucial as the Cubs embark on a nearly complete rebuild of their bullpen.
The Cubs are starting with a clean slate, with young right-handers Daniel Palencia and Porter Hodge being the only returning full-time relievers from last season, each having thrown at least 15 innings. While neither player spent the entire year in the majors, Palencia served as the closer for a significant portion of the season, demonstrating the team’s urgent need for experienced depth.
As the Cubs navigate this pivotal phase, Maton’s addition represents not only a tactical move but also a commitment to enhancing their competitive edge in the league. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as this story develops, eager to see how Maton fits into the Cubs’ future plans.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Cubs finalize their roster for the upcoming season and prepare for what promises to be an exciting year ahead.
