Kenta Maeda, a Japanese professional baseball pitcher, has signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees. Maeda has previously played for the Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers. The signing is seen as a move to strengthen the Yankees' rotation. However, Maeda has struggled since 2021, with a 5.97 ERA and 1.38 WHIP in 57 1/3 innings with the Chicago Cubs. The Tigers designated Maeda for assignment earlier in the year. The signing is seen as a move to stockpile underwhelming arms by the Yankees.
Kenta Maeda Signs Minor League Deal with Yankees Amid Rotation Need
The New York Yankees have made a move to bolster their struggling rotation by signing Japanese professional baseball pitcher Kenta Maeda to a minor league contract. Maeda, who has previously played for the Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers, is expected to report to the Yankees’ minor league affiliate, according to sources.
Yankees Look to Strengthen Rotation with Kenta Maeda Signing
Maeda’s signing comes as a response to the Yankees’ need to strengthen their rotation, which has been plagued by inconsistency. Despite his struggles since 2021, Maeda remains a talented pitcher with a lot of potential. “We’re excited to have Kenta join our organization,” said a Yankees spokesperson. “He’s a talented pitcher with a lot of experience, and we think he can make a positive impact on our team.”
Who else got Traded to YENKEES ?
He's a talented pitcher with a lot of experience, and we think he can make a positive impact on our team. We're excited to have Kenta join our organization
Maeda’s Struggles Since 2021 Raise Questions About His Impact
Maeda has had a tumultuous career, struggling since 2021 with a 5.97 ERA and 1.38 WHIP in 57 1/3 innings with the Chicago Cubs. The Tigers designated Maeda for assignment earlier in the year, and he opted out of his contract with the Cubs. Despite his struggles, Maeda remains a talented pitcher with a lot of potential.
“I’m excited to join the Yankees and contribute to their success,” said Maeda in a statement. “I’m looking forward to working with their coaching staff and helping the team win.” With his addition, the Yankees are hoping to find a spark in their rotation and make a push for the playoffs.
FAQs
Who is Kenta Maeda?
Kenta Maeda is a 37-year-old Japanese right-handed pitcher, currently signed to a minor league deal with the New York Yankees. He made his MLB debut in 2016 and has also pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins, and Detroit Tigers
What team did he play for before the Yankees?
Before joining the Yankees, Maeda signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs in May 2025 after being released by the Detroit Tigers due to struggles during the season
What is Maeda’s role with the Yankees?
He is expected to start in the Triple A system to provide pitching depth. Given his veteran status, he may serve as a potential MLB depth option but will not likely begin with the major league roster immediately
Will Maeda make the Yankees’ roster?
That’s uncertain. He has been signed as a depth arm, and his recent performance has been inconsistent. If he performs exceptionally in Triple A, the Yankees might call him up as needed but a major league roster spot isn’t guaranteed.
