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Cubs Option Struggling Catcher Moisés Ballesteros to Triple-A Iowa
The Chicago Cubs sent their top prospect down Thursday to secure regular at-bats and address mechanical issues. Outfielder Justin Dean is expected to be recalled in the corresponding move.
Jun 19, 3:07 AM·1m read1 source
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The Chicago Cubs optioned catcher and designated hitter Moisés Ballesteros to Triple-A Iowa on Thursday, June 18, 2026. The move gives the 22-year-old Venezuelan prospect more consistent playing time and an opportunity to correct mechanical issues. 385 in limited major-league action this season.
444 OPS over his last 30 games. Miguel Amaya handled most catching duties for the Cubs during the 2026 season, leaving Ballesteros with irregular at-bats at the designated-hitter spot. The organization described the assignment as a developmental reset rather than a performance-based demotion.
In Iowa, Ballesteros is expected to play every day, allowing him to focus on timing issues, particularly weak contact against fastballs. com reported that the Cubs view the step as a way to ensure he returns stronger and more consistent. Ballesteros earned Cubs Minor League Player of the Year honors in both 2023 and 2024.
He made his MLB debut in May 2025 and entered the 2026 season as the club’s No. 1 prospect. The Cubs are expected to recall outfielder Justin Dean in the corresponding roster move.
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