To answer your question, I always cut the tree into 2 or 3 ft lengths, split it down the middle, and cut into the lengths and sizes I think I'll use. I'll make some into small lumber for dovetail boxes and the rest for turned material. For pens I nearly always cut on a 30 degree diagonal as straight cut is pretty boring unless it's for segmenting.
It will take a while to dry, if that is your intention, but not nearly so long as it would if your left it in large pieces. I bring smaller pieces inside the house in the winter so they will dry quickly. Get a moisture meter, you'll need it.
The department of agriculture even says silver leaf maple is good for cabinets and turning. Much of the "Birds Eye Maple" you'll see is actually Silver Leaf Maple heartwood. Didn't know that till today.
