At long last, Chicago Cubs top prospects Moises Ballesteros is reporting to 2026 Major League Spring Training. The native of Venezuela had been delayed in reporting due to issues with his visa. Now that those issues have been resolved, he is joining the rest of the Cubs team in Arizona with his sights set on making the Opening Day roster.
Indeed, Ballesteros has generated more buzz than any other Chicago prospect in recent memory. His first cup of coffee in the Majors last season saw him hit .298/.394/.474 with two home runs and 11 RBI in 20 games. He also drew nine walks compared to 12 strikeouts.
In 114 games at Triple-A, Ballesteros hit .316/.385/.473 with 13 home runs and 76 RBI.
With his phenomenal minor league performance last year, along with his successful first run in the Majors, expectations are high for the Cubs’ top prospect in 2026.
Chicago Cubs GM says expectations are high for Moises Ballesteros
Sep 16, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs designated hitter Moises Ballesteros (25) prepares his bat before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
In a recent article posted by The Athletic, renowned baseball analyst Jim Bowden listed 20 prospects to watch in 2026 as they make their way to the Major Leagues. Of course, Ballesteros was among these. Of the Cubs’ top prospect, Bowden wrote:
“Ballesteros, 22, has a “hit” tool that is going to carry him, as he’s one of the most advanced hitters in this rookie class. He has above-average bat-to-ball skills and can hit all types of pitches, including high velocity, sharp breaking balls and off-speed offerings.
“He’ll use the entire field to hit line drives with elite exit velocity. His raw power far out-paces his in-game power to date, but the homers will come in time. His best position is designated hitter, but he can backup both first base and catcher when needed with below-average defense. The bat is going to play.”
Bowden also included the following quote from Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins:
“Bally is a natural hitter with a knack for finding barrels and a mature approach that is beyond his age. We think he can catch in the big leagues as well and have high expectations for his future.”
Clearly, Chicago has is placing their faith in Ballesteros to emerge as the player that they think he can be. It will be interesting and exciting to see how he performs this year.
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