Chicago Cubs’ Paul Maholm pitches for first time in Cactus League – MLB News
The Chicago Cubs’ pitcher Paul Maholm had his first start this season on Monday, March 12. The game in the Cactus League against the Cincinnati Reds provided a rare opportunity to closely look how far the pitcher is ready to work himself in the coming regular
season.
Cubs are currently in possession of a variety of pitchers who are equipped with force and effectiveness. Maholm is one of them. At a time when the team is exploring the best available option for the rotation, Maholm presents a strong case for being designated
as the starter.
The start that he had on Monday was good enough to lead to the Cubs’ eventual victory. A closely fought game at the end had the result of 8-6 in the Cubs favour against the Reds. Maholm was understandably happy with the outcome.
"I was happy to get out there," Maholm said. "After going through [pitchers' fielding practice] and throwing bullpens, you really don't feel a part of it -- and then you get out there and it went well. I wish I would've gotten ahead of a couple more guys.
My main thing was no walks, and I was aggressive and went after the guys."
Over two innings that he pitched, Maholm gave up only a run, allowing other pitchers to exert pressure on the Reds. The strategy bore the fruit and helped the team win the game at the end.
Jeff Samardzija who followed Maholm was happy with the latter’s performance. Jeff Samardzija’s ability to pitch effective innings was credited to Maholm’s good start.
"It's just timing, to tell you the truth," Samardzija said. "Paulie pitched pretty good and went nice and quick, and kind of made it a little easier so I was on time.”
With the performance that the pitcher put up on Monday, there are reasons to believe that the Cubs will come forward as a strong defensive side. Both Samardzija and Maholm, among others, will have a key role to play in bringing about the results that the
Cubs are expecting from the pitchers in the new season.
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