He returned to action in 2021, and split the season between the rookie–level Florida Complex League Marlins, Single–A Jupiter Hammerheads, High–A Beloit Snappers, and Double–A Pensacola Blue Wahoos. In 21 games for the four affiliates, he accumulated a 4.30 ERA with 34 strikeouts across 29+1⁄3 innings pitched.[3] Maldonado split the 2022 campaign between Pensacola and the Triple–A Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, compiling a 3.03 ERA with 86 strikeouts across 42 appearances out of the bullpen.[4]
In 2023, Maldonado played for Jacksonville, also making three scoreless appearances for Jupiter. In 34 relief outings for the Jumbo Shrimp, he registered a 7–3 record and 1.76 ERA with 71 strikeouts and 9 saves.[5] On November 14, 2023, the Marlins added Maldonado to their 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft.[6] He was optioned to the Triple–A Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp to begin the 2024 season.[7]
On April 26, 2024, Maldonado was promoted to the major leagues for the first time. He was named the starting pitcher for that night's game after Jesús Luzardo was scratched due to injury.[8] In 16 games during his rookie campaign, Maldonado compiled a 1–1 record and 5.68 ERA with 11 strikeouts across 19 innings pitched.
Athletics
On November 4, 2024, Maldonado was claimed off waivers by the Athletics.[9]