Chicago Cubs prospect Miguel Amaya speaks on path to Major Leagues

The Chicago Cubs promoted former top prospect Miguel Amaya to the Major League level on Tuesday after veteran catcher Yan Gomes continues to undergo evaluations after being forced to leave Monday's game against the Washington Nationals early after being hit in the back of the head on a backswing.

Amaya, who had been off to a hot offensive start with Double-A Tennessee, is now the third catcher on the roster and while his stint at the Major League level may be brief, the journey to this point has not been lost on the rookie catcher.

"“It hasn’t been easy,” Amaya said. “It’s been a roller coaster, ups and downs, a lot of work mentally, and of course physically. But this is something that gets us strong and positive and faithful every day. I’m happy to be here with this beautiful team.”"

Miguel Amaya via The Athletic

Injuries have resulted in Amaya playing less than 100 games in each season since he appeared in 119 games with the Cubs' Class-A affiliate in 2018. 2023 marked the return to catching duties for Amaya since the start of the 2021 season.

Despite the injuries and the roundabout path Amaya has taken to reach the Major League level, he still is an important piece to the Cubs' future. The Cubs' long-term plan at the catching position is unclear and the team has always remained high on Amaya's ability to manage a pitching staff. If Amaya can stay healthy and continue the offensive success that he has shown since returning as a designated hitter with Double-A Tennessee at the end of the 2022 season, then he could very well still be the answer at catcher for the Cubs.

Amaya's parents will be in attendance tonight when the Cubs play the Nationals and it would seem likely that the game will mark the catching prospect's Major League debut.

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