The Chicago Cubs made another significant roster move removing veteran right-handed pitcher from first team as the club continues to reshape its pitching staff.
The decision came before the second game of the weekend series at Great American Ball Park and created room on the 26-man active roster for veteran reliever Phil Maton, who was activated from the injured list after completing his recovery.
Woodford’s stay with the Cubs proved to be extremely brief. The 7-year Major League veteran had signed with Chicago only a week earlier after being released by the Milwaukee Brewers, with the Cubs hoping he could provide valuable depth to a bullpen that has dealt with multiple injuries in recent weeks.
However, his lone appearance with the club did little to strengthen his case for a longer stay.
Pitching in Friday night’s series opener against Cincinnati, Woodford struggled to keep the Reds’ lineup under control. The 28-year-old surrendered three earned runs on five hits over just two innings of work, forcing the Cubs to rely heavily on the remainder of their bullpen. The outing ultimately convinced the organization to move on almost immediately.
Woodford entered the season looking to re-establish himself after bouncing between organizations over the past year. Best known for his time with the St. Louis Cardinals, he has appeared in parts of seven Major League seasons, serving primarily as a swingman capable of both starting games and pitching in long relief. Throughout his MLB career, he has built a reputation for throwing strikes and generating weak contact, though consistency has often been an issue.
By designating Woodford for assignment, the Cubs now have up to seven days to trade him, release him, or attempt to outright him to the minor leagues if he clears waivers.
The corresponding move brings back Phil Maton, whose return should provide an immediate boost to Chicago’s bullpen. The experienced reliever has been a reliable late-inning option throughout his career and gives manager Craig Counsell another trusted arm as the Cubs continue battling through a demanding stretch of the schedule.
Chicago’s front office has remained aggressive in managing its pitching staff throughout the season, frequently making roster adjustments to ensure the bullpen remains fresh and competitive. Injuries and heavy workloads have forced the club to cycle through several relievers, and Saturday’s transaction is the latest example of that strategy.
As the Cubs continue their important divisional push, the organization hopes Maton’s return will stabilize the relief corps while Woodford’s future will now depend on whether another club claims him or if he remains within Chicago’s organization after the waiver process.
