I didn't like the Maldonado signing, and still don't. The implication is that he tutors Lee, and he helps keep young pitchers he works with focused. I don't really buy into that, but with so many issues on this club, Maldonado as backup isn't pressing.
The team isn't getting shut out once a series. While they don't give out awards for that, they can score a few runs a game, now. I think the bullpen is the next frontier. Maybe having 4 guys who can now go 6 innings regularly helps them out.