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Chicago Cubs: A primer on the international market for 2020-21

DUNEDIN, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 27: MLB Logo on the batting mat during the spring training game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Minnesota Twins at TD Ballpark on February 27, 2020 in Dunedin, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
DUNEDIN, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 27: MLB Logo on the batting mat during the spring training game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Minnesota Twins at TD Ballpark on February 27, 2020 in Dunedin, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /
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Chicago Cubs: Another catcher to add to the depths

Next up is catching prospect Moises Ballesteros, from Venezuela. Current superstar Willson Contreras hails from the native country, and two of the Cubs’ signings in 2019 were from Venezuela. If the team didn’t have enough catching depth already, we might add some more talent to the organization.

Ballesteros is already considered one of the top backstops from Venezuela, and it is no surprise that the Cubs prefer his profile. While hitting from the plate’s left side, Ballesteros has a smooth upright swing similar to that of a left-handed Baez. I know we keep circling to Baez as the comparison, but it is a noticeable attribute for both guys.

The thing which should excite fans the most about Ballesteros is his defensive ability. He has been recorded on video, via Baseball America’s international correspondent Ben Badler, as having produced a 1.7 second pop time which is considered elite by major league standing. He has a strong arm and a significant presence behind the plate. If you watch this guy, you know why he is an exciting name for the Cubs to be linked.

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