The Chicago Cubs are facing a major setback behind the plate, as catcher Miguel Amaya has officially been placed on the injured list, dealing a significant blow to what was shaping up to be one of Major League Baseball’s most promising catching duos. The injury, which sources indicate could sideline Amaya for multiple weeks, has stirred controversy among fans and analysts alike—especially following the team’s decision on how to fill the void.
Amaya, 25, had been splitting time with veteran catcher Yan Gomes, and the two were beginning to form a strong, complementary tandem. Amaya’s youthful energy, defensive prowess, and improving bat provided balance to Gomes’ veteran leadership and game-calling expertise. The duo was seen by many as the ideal combination for a pitching staff in transition—anchoring a team battling through an up-and-down season.
However, the Cubs’ front office shocked many by opting to call up minor league backstop Bryce Windham rather than top catching prospect Moises Ballesteros, who has been on a tear at Double-A Tennessee. Fans quickly took to social media to criticize the move, accusing the organization of being overly cautious with its prized prospects and “punting on potential upside” at a critical point in the season.
President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer defended the decision during a press availability, citing development timelines and defensive readiness as key reasons Ballesteros was passed over. “We want to ensure that when a player like Moises comes up, he’s fully ready to contribute on both sides of the ball,” Hoyer said. “Bryce gives us immediate experience at the Triple-A level and familiarity with some of our pitchers.”
Still, the decision has left many Cubs faithful concerned, especially with a challenging stretch of games ahead and offensive struggles continuing to plague the lineup. The absence of Amaya’s strong arm and improving plate presence may loom large, especially if the Cubs struggle to manage opposing base runners or fail to generate offensive production from the catching spot.
With pressure mounting and eyes on the standings, all signs now point to a critical few weeks ahead for the Cubs—and their catching corps.