Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Amaya left Saturday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds after experiencing a right oblique strain, a significant injury that could sideline him for an extended period.
The injury occurred during a steal attempt when Amaya threw down to second base, immediately raising concerns about his availability moving forward. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed that Amaya is “likely” headed to the injured list pending further imaging.
The Cubs are expected to have Amaya undergo imaging tests on Tuesday to determine the severity of the oblique strain. Oblique injuries can be tricky for catchers due to the constant twisting and throwing motions required, and the team is hoping for the best-case scenario as they manage his recovery.
Amaya’s absence would leave a noticeable hole behind the plate for the Cubs as they continue their campaign.
Amaya has been a reliable offensive contributor this season, slashing .280/.313/.505 with four home runs and 25 RBIs in 27 games. Since breaking through as a rookie in 2023, he has established himself as a key part of the Cubs’ lineup and defense. His injury disrupts the catching rotation and forces the team to rely more heavily on backup Carson Kelly.
Kelly has been productive when given the opportunity, batting .301/.425/.612 with nine home runs and 24 RBIs in 32 games this season. He is expected to take over as the starting catcher at least for the immediate future. However, the Cubs will need additional depth to cover Amaya’s absence, especially if the injury sidelines him for multiple weeks.
To fill the roster spot, the Cubs are likely to recall top catching prospect Moisés Ballesteros, who recently made his MLB debut but was optioned back to the minors after limited playing time.
Ballesteros showed promise with three hits in 16 at-bats over five games and is the only other catcher on the 40-man roster, making him the logical choice to step up.
As the Cubs finish their series with the Reds and prepare to face the Colorado Rockies, how they manage Amaya’s injury and the catching situation will be crucial. The team hopes for a swift recovery but must also prepare for life without one of their top catchers. Fans will be watching closely as the Cubs navigate this setback in an important stretch of the season.