In a world where the Chicago Cubs deserve the benefit of the doubt with their offseason intentions, there would be reasons to be impressed with their free agency efforts so far. The Cubs entered the offseason with question marks all throughout their major league bullpen, and their early moves have provided definitive answers.
The signings of Phil Maton, Hoby Milner, and Caleb Thielbar certainly shouldn't represent the banner moves of the Cubs' offseason, but they all served a purpose. Maton gives the Cubs a dependable setup man and potential replacement for Brad Keller. Milner and Thielbar also provide Craig Counsell with two dependable left-handed options, while offering a different look for opposing hitters.