JUPITER, Fla. — The St. Louis Cardinals have bolstered their bullpen by signing right-handed reliever Phil Maton to a one-year contract valued at $2 million. In a move that indicates strategic planning for the upcoming season, the Cardinals secured Maton’s services on Thursday.
Maton, who was acquired by the New York Mets in a mid-season trade from the Tampa Bay Rays, delivered an impressive performance last year. His stint with the Mets resulted in a record of 3-3 with a 3.66 ERA across 71 appearances. Notably, he posted a 2.52 ERA in 31 games while with New York and contributed significantly during the Mets’ march to the National League Championship Series.
Approaching his 32nd birthday on March 25, Maton exhibited consistency throughout the season by recording a career-high of 18 holds. Out of the 31 games he played for the Mets, he successfully avoided being scored upon in 25. However, after the Mets decided against exercising his $7,775,000 option—opting for a $250,000 buyout instead—Maton entered free agency, leading to his latest agreement with St. Louis.
The contract with the Cardinals does not include any performance bonuses. With the departure of Andrew Kittredge, who left the Cardinals’ bullpen after signing with the Baltimore Orioles, Maton’s addition is a crucial reinforcement for the team’s pitching roster.
Throughout his major league career, Maton has compiled a win-loss record of 19-15 and achieved five saves, alongside a 4.16 ERA in 415 appearances across his tenure in the majors. He has played for several teams, including the San Diego Padres, Cleveland Indians, Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Rays, and most recently the Mets.
To accommodate Maton’s addition to their roster, the Cardinals have designated left-handed pitcher Bailey Horn for assignment, making the necessary adjustments to their 40-man lineup.
