MLB: Chicago White Sox at Detroit Tigers Apr 4, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Kenta Maeda (18) pitches in the eighth inning against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

‘Washed’: Chicago Cubs face scrutiny for signing 7.88 ERA relief pitcher

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated May 16, 2025 9:02 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs are set to play a three-game home series at Wrigley Field against the Chicago White Sox. The Cubs had an off day on Thursday after winning two of three games this week against the Miami Marlins.

On the off day, the Cubs’ front office was busy looking for help with the pitching staff. Chicago has been plagued by injuries to the starting rotation and inconsistent efforts from the bullpen to begin an otherwise promising season.

The Cubs have a one-game lead on the St. Louis Cardinals for first place in the NL Central.

The Chicago Cubs added a pitcher with a 7.88 ERA

Per multiple reports, the Cubs are adding right-handed veteran Kenta Maeda on a minor league contract ahead of their series against the White Sox. Maeda earned All-MLB Second Team honors in 2020.

However, the 37-year-old has struggled in recent seasons. He posted a 6.09 ERA in 2024, the worst of his MLB career.

In 2025, Maeda posted a 7.88 ERA in seven appearances to begin this season with the Detroit Tigers in eight total innings pitched.

Cubs fans call Maeda “washed”

Syndication: Detroit Free Press Detroit Tigers pitcher Kenta Maeda (18) delivers a pitch against Chicago White Sox during the eighth inning of home opening day at Comerica Park in Detroit on Friday, April 4, 2025.

Cubs fans weren’t excited about the Maeda signing. Many think he’s washed, and others think he’s a project for Chicago to try and fix this year. Still, he’s a low-risk option for a team that needs arms in the bullpen.

“I’m not often a pessimist, but I’m afraid his tank is empty at this point. I doubt he even gets called up,” wrote a fan.

“But… I mean why tho,” posted another.

“He is so washed lol,” believes a fan.

“How do you say “washed” in Japanese?,”asked a fan.

“JED WITH THE BARGAIN BIN ONCE AGAIN,” wrote a poster.

“Why are people whining about this? It’s the definition of taking a low risk shot,” hopes one commenter.

MLB: Chicago Cubs Press Conference Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer speaks before introducing Craig Counsell as new Cubs manager during a press conference in Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

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

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