Get ready to see a lot more of Moises Ballesteros in 2026. The Chicago Cubs are betting big on this young Venezuelan catcher, and it’s a move that’s already sparking debate among fans and analysts alike. But here’s where it gets interesting: while his bat has been turning heads, his defensive skills are still a work in progress. Is he ready for the spotlight? Let’s dive in.
During the Cubs’ playoff push last September, manager Craig Counsell handed Ballesteros the cleanup spot eight times—a bold move for a recent call-up. Those games, Counsell says, were a testament to the trust the organization has placed in the 21-year-old. “Moises did a phenomenal job last year,” Counsell reflected. “We leaned on him heavily, and he delivered in ways that really stood out.”
In just 20 games with the Cubs in 2025, Ballesteros slashed an impressive .298/.394/.474, striking out only 12 times in 66 plate appearances. “His ability to make contact is remarkable,” Counsell noted. “The ball doesn’t just go to one side of the field—it’s all over, against any pitch. That’s a recipe for success.”
And it wasn’t just in the majors where Ballesteros shined. During his time with Triple-A Iowa, he batted .316/.385/.473 across 114 games, marking his highest batting average at any minor league level. Cubs farm director Jason Kanzler praised Ballesteros’s natural hitting ability and aggressive approach. “He’s not just mechanically sound—his confidence and self-belief set him apart,” Kanzler said. “He steps up to the plate ready to attack pitches in the zone.”
But here’s where it gets controversial: while Ballesteros’s offensive game is ahead of schedule, his defensive skills are still catching up. In 2025, he caught just six innings for the Cubs, with the rest of his starts coming as a designated hitter. Over his professional career, he’s only logged 303 games behind the plate. Last year at Triple-A Iowa, he threw out just 13% of basestealers, well below the International League average of 21.6%.
“Moises has put in the work with our catching coaches and made noticeable improvements,” Kanzler assured. “I’m excited to see him grow as a major league catcher with more opportunities behind the plate.”
The Cubs’ plan for 2026 is clear: Ballesteros will catch more games. But the question remains—can his defensive skills match his offensive prowess? And this is the part most people miss: Is it fair to expect a 21-year-old to carry both the bat and the mitt at the highest level?
As the Cubs prepare for the upcoming season, Ballesteros’s role will be a focal point. His potential is undeniable, but the path to becoming a complete catcher won’t be without challenges. What do you think? Is Moises Ballesteros ready for the increased responsibility, or is the Cubs’ organization moving too fast? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss.
