ASSOCIATED PRESSThere are a few things to keep in mind when understanding the Cubs trade of left-handed pitcher Mike Montgomery to the Kansas City Royals for catcher Martin Maldonado. The team is one of the best defensive teams in baseball, but this year they have played inconsistent on the defensive side of the game. “He’s really smart behind home plate,” reliever Wily Peralta told Kansas City Starreporter Lynn Worthy last spring. The mechanics he showed in the game against the Reds, certainly puts his ability as a defensive asset in question. Regardless of what Epstein’s plans are before the July 31 trade deadline, the addition of Maldonado makes the Cubs a better team.

Source: Forbes July 17, 2019 04:07 UTC