Phil Maton Signs Two-Year Deal to Bolster Cubs Bullpen

The Chicago Cubs just signed veteran reliever Phil Maton to a two-year deal, according to The Athletic. The contract includes a club option and still hinges on a physical.

Bringing in Maton gives the Cubs a late-inning arm with a real track record. At 32, he’s coming off maybe his best season yet, and the Cubs hope he can steady the bullpen as they aim for another playoff run.

Phil Maton’s Career-Best 2025 Season

Maton’s value shot up after a standout 2025 split between the St. Louis Cardinals and Texas Rangers. He posted a career-best 2.79 ERA over 63 appearances and struck out 81 in just over 61 innings.

That strikeout-to-innings ratio really tells the story. He’s always leaned on his ability to miss bats, and this past year was no different.

Impact After Midseason Trade to Texas

When Maton landed in Texas in late July, the Rangers got exactly what they needed. He struck out 33 hitters in 23 innings, put up a 3.52 ERA, and managed a sharp 0.957 WHIP.

That WHIP shows just how well he kept runners off base. For a reliever in tough spots, that’s gold.

Previous Performances Build His Reputation

Maton’s journey to Chicago has taken him all over the league. In 2024, he joined the New York Mets after a trade from Tampa Bay and put up a 2.51 ERA in 31 games.

He helped push the Mets into a wild-card spot, showing he brings value to teams with postseason ambitions.

Postseason Struggles Didn’t Define Him

Things didn’t go his way in the 2024 postseason, where his ERA ballooned to 8.53. The Mets let him go that winter, and he hit free agency.

Still, he bounced back strong in 2025 and reminded everyone he’s a reliable bullpen piece.

The Cubs’ Strategic Move

The Cubs see this as a smart bet on experience. After a playoff run, they know the late innings can make or break a season.

Maton brings almost a decade in the majors, pitching for seven teams before landing in Chicago.

What Maton Brings to Chicago’s Bullpen

Here’s what Maton adds for the Cubs:

• Strikeout Ability: His strikeout rate sits above league average, which gives the Cubs a weapon in tight spots.
• Versatility: He can handle anything from the middle innings to late-game setups.
• Experience Under Pressure: He’s pitched in the playoffs and knows how to handle big moments.
• Consistency: With recent ERAs under 3.00, he’s shown he can get it done over a full season.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season

Maton heads into spring training as one of the most seasoned arms in the Cubs’ bullpen. His exact role will depend on how manager Craig Counsell lines things up, but fans are expecting a lot.

If Maton comes close to his 2025 performance—or even tops it—he might end up as one of the year’s sneakiest good signings.

Chasing Another Playoff Berth

Chicago’s front office looks determined to keep the momentum rolling from last year’s playoff run. Adding Maton shows they trust the team’s core and want to bolster relief pitching depth.

The National League Central is still a tough crowd. Closing out those late-inning games matters more than ever, and that’s where Maton’s steady hand could really help.

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