With the Chicago Cubs signing Christian Bethancourt to a minor-league deal earlier this week, it was a reminder that after the 2026 season, the team may need a long-term catcher. Carson Kelly is a free agent, and with Miguel Amaya's track record with injuries, he can't be counted on as the answer at the position.
That's another reason why Moises Ballesteros' development at the major league level in 2026 is so important. Ballesteros' biggest impact on the Cubs next season is expected to be with his bat, but even as the third catcher on the 26-man roster, he should have more runway at the position in the majors than he had last season.