Cubs Prospects: Ballesteros Enter Top 30 with Morel Graduation

Christopher Morel entered the 2022 season as a top 30 prospect for the Chicago Cubs. In fact, he was expected to remain on the list for at least another season after expectations he’d reach the majors in 2023. However, the 22-year-old has jumped to the majors early with plenty of success and now graduated from the team’s top 30 list. As a result, 18-year-old catcher Moises Ballesteros has joined the list in the No. 30 spot.

The Venezuelan catcher is still young and incredibly raw, but entering the top 30 is a feather in Ballesteros’ cap. According to his profile, Ballesteros profiles as more of an offensive catcher with some pop and the ability to develop into an average defender behind the plate. One thing is certain, the defensive side of catching usually takes the longest to develop, so it is safe to believe we won’t see the 18-year-old for at least five years, if not more.

Ballesteros is currently in rookie ball with the Cubs. In only 10 games this season, he is slashing .303/.378/.576 with a pair of home runs and five RBI. In addition, his three doubles and four runs scored has helped the catcher match his profile on the stat sheet. He is showing offensive ability with the hope that his defense eventually catches up in development.