‘He’s struggled’: Chicago Cubs manager isn’t confident with new pitcher

Late Thursday night, reports surfaced that the Chicago Cubs were adding to their pitching arsenal this season ahead of their three-game matchup this weekend against their crosstown rival, the Chicago White Sox, at Wrigley Field.

The Cubs signed right-handed veteran Kenta Maeda on a minor league contract.

At 37, Maeda has a decorated career in the MLB and Japan.

He earned All-MLB Second Team honors in 2020.

However, the 37-year-old has not been the same in recent seasons.

He posted a 6.09 ERA in 2024, the worst of his MLB career.

Hes off to a worse start in 2025, earning a 7.88 ERA in seven appearances to begin this season with the Detroit Tigers in eight total innings pitched.

Maedas troubles in recent seasons caught a considerable collective groan on social media, with many calling him washed .

Chicago Cubs dont appear confident in Kenta Maeda On Friday, Craig Counsell confirmed to reporters in his pregame press conference that Chicago indeed is taking a chance on Maeda.

Counsell didnt appear to be confident in his new pitchers abilities.

He has had success.

Hes struggled.

...

Its a player youve got to have constant conversations with and see where we can make some adjustments and see where hes at, Counsell said via Vinnie Duber of the Chicago Sun-Times.

Craig Counsell confirmed the Cubs are signing Kenta Maeda to a minor league deal.

He has had success.

Hes struggled.

...

Its a player youve got to have constant conversations with and see where we can make some adjustments and see where hes at.

@suntimes_sports Vinnie Duber (@VinnieDuber) May 16, 2025 Good thing for the Cubs sake that this is a minor league deal, which means low stakes for Chicago.

One would assume this signing has no bearing on the Cubs seeking long-term solutions for the starting rotation or bullpen.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission..

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