This past weekend was a relatively quiet one, until the Mets and Rangers shook up their rosters with a blockbuster trade that included two highly-paid stars. However, there was some action done this weekend. The Cubs reportedly picked up veteran reliever Phil Maton. The Braves, meanwhile, re-signed yet another reliever, as Joel Payamps will return in 2026 just days after the team brought back closer Raisel Iglesias.
Payamps back with Braves
The Braves announced that Joel Payamps re-signed with the Braves on a one-year, $2.25MM deal.
The #Braves today agreed to terms with RHP Joel Payamps on a one-year contract worth $2.25 million for the 2026 season.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) November 23, 2025
Payamps struck out two over 2.2 IP with the Braves last season after he was claimed off waivers by the Brewers in September. The 31-year-old became a free agent after he was outrighted to Triple-A Gwinnett in November.
The ex-Brewer works with four pitches, including two fastballs, a slider, and a changeup. He was a fantastic setup man for the Brewers in 2023 and 2024 before he posted a 6.84 ERA last season between Milwaukee and Atlanta.
Maton reportedly signs with Cubs
Multiple outlets, including MLB.com, noted that the Cubs agreed to sign Phil Maton to a two-year deal.
The 32-year-old had a fantastic regular season, split between the Cardinals and Rangers. Maton struck out 81 over 61.1 IP. Big swing-and-miss pitcher, as he generates a lot of action with his curveball, sweeper, and cutter.
He also excelled at generating weak contact, as his 3.6 Barrel% ranked among the league’s best last year.
Maton will join a Cubs bullpen that still includes Daniel Palencia and Porter Hodge. However, Chicago cut down salary thus far in the winter, trading away Andrew Kittredge and choosing not to tender a contract to Eli Morgan.
Other moves
The Orioles sent Luis Vazquez outright to Triple-A Norfolk.
Check out more of our MLB coverage, including a look at the Marcus Semien-Brandon Nimmo trade.
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