Miguel Amaya, once touted as the future of the Chicago Cubs’ backstop position, is finally starting to show why the organization has invested so much faith in him. Known for his defensive prowess and strong arm behind the plate, Amaya’s bat has long been considered a work in progress. However, a subtle but significant change to his approach at the plate is yielding remarkable results and has scouts and fans alike buzzing about his potential as a well-rounded contributor at the major league level.
The Key Adjustment Fueling A Young Cubs Breakout
The Struggle With Consistency
Amaya’s offensive production has often been streaky throughout his major league career. His swing featured a noticeable leg kick, a timing mechanism that, while providing potential power, usually led to inconsistency. This leg kick caused Amaya to be late on fastballs and out of sync on breaking balls, resulting in a high strikeout rate and difficulty driving the ball consistently. Although athletic and balanced, his stance was prone to timing disruptions, especially when facing higher-velocity pitching or off-speed pitches.
For a catcher who already had the rigors of handling a pitching staff and maintaining defensive excellence, the added complexity of his swing mechanics seemed unnecessary. The young catcher knew something had to change if he wanted to reach his full potential as a hitter.
The Simplified Approach
That change came at the beginning of the 2024 season, under the guidance of Cubs hitting coach Dustin Kelly. Amaya decided to remove the leg kick from his swing entirely, replacing it with a simpler toe-tap that serves as a more reliable timing mechanism. The adjustment was not without its challenges; reworking muscle memory and adjusting to live pitching without the leg kick took weeks of practice and patience. However, the results are already beginning to speak for themselves.
Without the leg kick, Amaya’s lower half has become much quieter. His head remains more still, allowing his eyes to track the ball more effectively. The toe-tap approach has also given him a more direct path to the ball, cutting down his swing length and improving his ability to make solid contact, especially against breaking pitches. His ability to stay balanced and drive the ball to all fields has noticeably improved, making him a more formidable presence in the batter’s box.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
Since adopting this new approach, Amaya’s offensive numbers have improved. His strikeout rate has dropped significantly, while his walk rate remains solid, a sign that he’s not only making more contact but also seeing the ball better. The batting average has climbed to a respectable .243, and his on-base percentage has hovered around .300, thanks to an improved ability to work the count and take pitches the other way.
His slugging percentage, meanwhile, has also seen an uptick, indicating that the power potential scouts have long dreamed of might finally be coming to fruition. The key difference? His newfound ability to handle off-speed pitches and adjust to different types of pitches within an at-bat.
The Impact Beyond The Numbers
Amaya’s change at the plate has also had ripple effects throughout the Cubs’ lineup. A more productive Amaya lengthens the Cubs’ batting order, providing a valuable presence in the lower third. As a catcher, his ability to contribute offensively can change the dynamics of how opposing teams approach the Cubs, knowing they cannot afford to overlook him as an easy out.
But beyond the box score, the shift also reflects Amaya’s maturity and commitment to becoming a complete player. At just 25 years old, he’s already shown leadership qualities that belied his age, and his willingness to make adjustments and refine his craft speaks volumes about his determination to succeed at the highest level.
What’s Next For Amaya?
If Miguel Amaya continues to refine his simplified approach, the Cubs could have a valuable asset in their lineup for years to come. The elimination of the leg kick might just be the beginning of a series of adjustments and refinements that help him unlock his full potential. For a team with aspirations to contend, having a young catcher who can contribute on both sides of the ball is a luxury that could pay dividends as the season progresses.
Amaya’s journey is a testament to the power of subtle adjustments and the value of perseverance. For the Cubs, this young catcher’s changed approach at the plate is already finding him success — and he’s just getting started.
Main Photo Credits: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
