The 2026 World Baseball Classic has begun as Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Amaya is one of the players participating in the tournament. He is a member of Team Panama, who had their first game of pool play against Team Cuba on Friday afternoon. Amaya got the start behind the plate and was the team’s cleanup hitter in the lineup. Let’s take a closer look at how he did in his first game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Amaya goes hitless vs Panama in World Baseball Classic
May 6, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Amaya (9) hits a two run home run during the third inning against the San Francisco Giants at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Amaya did not do well at the plate in Team Panama’s opening game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He would finish the day going 0 for 3 on the day and hit into a double play. Amaya would also be lifted in the eighth inning for a pinch-hitter, but he did a good job behind the plate. He had a good showing offensively in the limited Spring Training action before leaving for the tournament, going 3 for 8 with the Cubs.
Team Panama did not attempt to steal a base against Amaya throughout the game, which showcases a skill of his arm strength. He was also able to lead the pitching staff to a good game, allowing three runs on five hits throughout the nine innings. However, Team Panama’s offense as a whole was not enough to scratch out a win, losing 3-1 in their opening game of pool play.
Amaya and his team will have to bounce back quickly as they have a tough matchup on Saturday against Team Puerto Rico to continue pool play. It will be interesting to see if Amaya is back in the lineup or if he is given the day off after catching in this World Baseball Classic game.
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