The Chicago Cubs have signed reliever Phil Maton to a two-year deal, according to The Athletic’s Will Sammon.
The right-hander brings veteran experience to a Cubs bullpen that’s looking to take the next step. At 33, Maton’s been around the block – he’s pitched for seven different MLB teams including Houston, San Diego, Cleveland, St. Louis, Tampa Bay, Texas and the Mets.
What makes this signing interesting is how well Maton pitched last season.
He split 2024 between the Cardinals and Rangers, posting solid numbers with both clubs. In 40 games with St. Louis, he had a 2.35 ERA. After getting traded to Texas, he threw 23 games with a 3.52 ERA.
That’s the kind of reliability the Cubs are banking on. Maton’s career numbers back it up – a 3.98 ERA with 10.3 strikeouts per nine innings over his time in the majors.
The 6-foot-2, 206-pound righty from Kentucky has pitched in big games throughout his career, though he’s never quite been around a team at the right time to win a World Series. The Cubs could change that.
They’re clearly planning to lean on Maton early and often. He’ll turn 33 on March 25, which puts him right in that sweet spot for relievers – experienced enough to handle pressure situations but still effective on the mound.
From where I’m sitting, this looks like a smart move for Chicago. They’re getting a proven arm who’s shown he can perform in different organizations and adapt quickly. That kind of versatility doesn’t come around often, especially for a team that needs bullpen depth.
