The Chicago Cubs have been dealt a significant blow as Miguel Amaya is set to miss up to six weeks due to injury. During the 2025 season, the Cubs have been performing well offensively, ranking second in the National League, but the injury to Amaya, who hurt his left oblique muscle in a game against the Cincinnati Reds, has slowed the team’s momentum. Despite this setback, the Cubs managed to win the series against the Reds, taking the first game 13-6, falling in the second 6-4, and clinching the final game 11-8.
Amaya, 26, who had contributed to the Cubs’ strong 34-21 record, was initially put on the 10-day injured list but recent MRI results have extended his expected absence to four to six weeks. The Panamanian-born catcher, who signed with the Cubs in 2015 and joined the major league roster in 2023, has shown marked improvement over the years. Although his performance has surged—posting a .280 batting average, a 3.13 ERA, and a .509 slugging percentage with nine doubles and four home runs—he remains one of Chicago’s lower-paid players, far behind high earners like Dansby Swanson.
In light of Amaya’s injury, discussions of a replacement have emerged, with fans hopeful about young prospect Moises Ballesteros. However, Cubs manager Craig Counsell emphasized that Ballesteros, at just 21 years old, still needs more experience before taking on the demanding catcher position. Instead, the Cubs have opted to bring in Reese McGuire, who signed a minor league deal in January and debuted for the Cubs on May 25th. With over 300 MLB games under his belt, McGuire’s addition is seen as a strategic move that does not undermine Ballesteros’ potential. Cubs president Jed Hoyer highlighted the decision as one focused on balancing offense and experience, noting the importance of patience as catching is a position that typically sees players improve with age.
Fan Take: This injury is a critical moment for the Cubs and their fans, highlighting the importance of depth and development within a team. It will be interesting to see how the Cubs balance nurturing young talent like Ballesteros while leaning on veterans like McGuire to maintain their competitive edge in a tightly contested season.
