Cubs Bolster Bullpen with Phil Maton; Diamondbacks Re-sign James McCann

The Major League Baseball offseason is still in its early, deliberate stage. General managers are making calculated decisions to strengthen rosters before the frenzy of blockbuster deals begins.

This week, the Chicago Cubs added veteran reliever Phil Maton to their bullpen. The Arizona Diamondbacks re-signed dependable backstop James McCann to shore up their catching corps.

Neither move will make headlines like a superstar signing, but both carry real implications for each team’s 2024 strategy.

Chicago Cubs Land Phil Maton to Fortify the Bullpen

The Cubs have reportedly reached a two-year agreement with Phil Maton, a 32-year-old right-handed reliever. Maton’s crafty pitching has made him one of baseball’s more underrated arms.

According to The Athletic, Maton is set to take on a pivotal late-inning role. He’ll join emerging talents Daniel Palencia and Porter Hodge, which the organization hopes will create a balanced mix of experience and youth.

Maton’s 2023 campaign showed off his command and pitch sequencing. He posted a 2.79 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP, striking out 81 over 61⅓ innings.

That kind of consistency stands out, especially since he doesn’t throw particularly hard—his fastball averages under 90 mph. He still finds ways to suppress runs.

Maton’s Unique Pitching Arsenal

Maton’s success comes from his diverse repertoire and pinpoint location. He frequently mixes a cutter, sinker, and curveball to keep hitters off balance.

This approach gets him swings and misses, plus plenty of weak contact. He’s become especially effective in high-pressure moments where one pitch can change everything.

For the Cubs, his arrival comes at a crucial time. Last season, Chicago’s bullpen performed admirably, piecing together success through a rotating cast.

Turnover has hit the relief corps hard this winter. Brad Keller, Caleb Thielbar, and Drew Pomeranz are all entering free agency.

• Brad Keller, Caleb Thielbar, and Drew Pomeranz entering free agency.
• Andrew Kittredge traded to the Baltimore Orioles.

Andrew Kittredge was also traded to the Baltimore Orioles. Maton’s steady presence gives manager Craig Counsell a dependable late-inning option as the bullpen transitions.

Diamondbacks Retain Veteran Catcher James McCann

In the desert, the Arizona Diamondbacks re-signed James McCann to a one-year contract. McCann joined Arizona midway through 2023 after brief stops with the Braves and D-backs.

He proved reliable both at the plate and behind it. In 42 games last year, McCann hit .260 with a .324 on-base percentage and a .431 slugging percentage.

He added five home runs and 17 RBIs. Not eye-popping, but there’s something to be said for a guy who comes through in clutch moments—Arizona certainly thinks so as they look to return to the postseason.

McCann’s Role in 2024

The veteran backstop will serve mostly as backup to Gabriel Moreno, the team’s young starting catcher. Moreno has quickly established himself as an emerging star in the National League.

McCann’s defensive skills, like pitch framing and managing the pitching staff, make him more than just a reserve. He’s almost a second line of security for a critical position.

Retaining McCann gives Arizona depth, experience, and leadership at catcher. His familiarity with the pitching staff helps the team maintain stability when Moreno needs rest or if an injury crops up.

Building Blocks for Bigger Goals

Championship teams don’t just appear because of flashy signings. They come together through depth, real chemistry, and a willingness to adapt.

Moves like these might not make headlines. Still, they often matter most when the season’s grind really kicks in.

Maton brings a crafty edge on the mound. McCann’s steady presence behind the plate doesn’t hurt either.

Both Chicago and Arizona seem to be quietly building something sturdy for 2024. You can almost sense that foundation settling in, even if it’s not obvious yet.

There’ll probably be more of these low-key, strategic moves as the offseason rolls on. In baseball, sometimes it’s those subtle preparations that tip the scales, not just the home run swings.

 
Here is the source article for this story: MLB rumors: Cubs reinforce relief corps with Phil Maton; Diamondbacks bring back catcher James McCann