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Chicago Cubs fans are all too familiar with catcher Tucker Barnhart, who spent the first 8 seasons of his career with the Cincinnati Reds. Of course, as the Cubs navigated life without Willson Contreras following the 2022 season, they brought in the veteran catcher on a one-year deal for the 2023 season. It was a forgetful season, and just as quiet as his one season with the Cubs, Barnhart announced his retirement on Monday.
Tucker didn't last the full season with the Cubs in 2023, as injuries and ineffectiveness led to his being released in August of that season. Splitting time with Yan Gomes before eventually conceding his roster spot to Miguel Amaya, Barnhart slashed .202/.285/.257 in 123 plate appearances with the Cubs.
One-year Cubs catcher quietly steps away after fading fast
In the last two seasons, Barnhart had Major League stops with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers. This season, with the Rangers, Barnhart appeared in 8 games while Texas was navigating injuries at their catching position.
Tucker began what was a revolving door for the Cubs at the catching position. This season, the Cubs benefited from some early offensive production from Miguel Amaya and Carson Kelly. Kelly has cooled since drawing comparisons to Barry Bonds at the beginning of the season, while Amaya continues to work his way back from an oblique strain. Amaya has resumed swinging, and there remains a chance that he is back with the team before the All-Star break.
The Cubs quietly have a decision to make once Amaya does return from injury. Taking his roster spot on the Major League roster during his injury has been Reese McGuire. McGuire has 5 home runs in just 15 games played this season, begging the question of whether the Cubs would be willing to carry three catchers on their roster. The answer to that question is likely no; however, with there being a need for catching across the league, the Cubs may quietly be able to move McGuire for cash considerations once Amaya is back from the IL.