The St. Louis Cardinals have secured an important return for their bullpen, as right-handed reliever Phil Maton has signed a one-year contract with the team. This signing is crucial, as Maton has become a key experienced player the Cardinals simply cannot afford to lose.
Maton, who will turn 32 in March, was traded from Tampa Bay to the Mets on July 9 and finished the 2024 season with a 3-3 record and a 3.66 ERA across 71 appearances. He was especially effective for New York, posting a 2-1 record with a 2.52 ERA in 31 games, and made six appearances in the Mets’ NL Championship Series run. His strong performance on the mound has solidified his role as a reliable late-inning option, and the Cardinals were eager to bring him back.
Maton enjoyed a career-high 18 holds last season and was unscored upon in 25 of his 31 games with the Mets. After the Mets declined his $7.8 million option in favor of a $250,000 buyout, Maton entered free agency and was quickly re-signed by the Cardinals, ensuring that the team maintains a vital arm in their bullpen.
The Cardinals lost Andrew Kittredge, who became a free agent and signed with the Baltimore Orioles, so re-signing Maton was a top priority. His experience and ability to perform under pressure are qualities the team cannot afford to lose, especially with the 2025 season on the horizon.
Maton has a career record of 19-15, five saves, and a 4.16 ERA in 415 appearances over eight seasons with San Diego, Cleveland, Houston, Tampa Bay, and New York. His ability to handle high-leverage situations makes him a crucial asset to the Cardinals as they strengthen their pitching staff.
To accommodate Maton on the 40-man roster, the Cardinals designated left-hander Bailey Horn for assignment.
With Maton back on board, the Cardinals’ bullpen is in a much stronger position, giving them a proven and experienced reliever to rely on as they gear up for the 2025 season.
