Cubs Catching: 2010 and beyond

As a little bit of unfinished business from my analysis of the Cubs infield on Tuesday, I’m going to look at the Cubs catcher position for 2010 and the future.

2010

Geovany Soto (under team control through 2013) – After winning the NL Rookie of the Year award in 2008, Soto looked lost in 2009, hitting only .218 with 11 HR’s (compared to .285 with 23 HR’s in 2008).  He was banged up during the year, only playing in 102 games versus 141 in 2008 and could never get going at the plate.  The Cubs are hoping that Rudy Jaramillo can turn him around, but if not the Cubs could turn to someone else.

Koyie Hill was Soto’s backup in 2009, after the Cubs signed him to a minor league deal.  He ended up getting 253 AB’s in 2009, which is way too much for a career .215 hitter.  He could be resigned by the Cubs to serve as Soto’s backup, but the Cubs will not be disappointed if he walks.

Steve Clevenger is the Cubs top catching prospect (surpassing Wellington Castillo) and could see significant playing time in 2010 if Soto can’t bounce back.  Clevenger has little power (only 7 HR’s in 840 AB’s), but can hit for average (career .307 hitter) and draw a walk (career .372 OBP).

Wellington Castillo ranked as the Cubs 5th best prospect by Baseball America prior to the 2009 season, saw his stock fall after hitting only .232 in AA.  He still has some pop (11 HR’s in 319 AB’s) and a good arm.  He should at least develop into a solid backup.

2011 and beyond

The Cubs are hoping that Soto bounces back under the tutelage of Jaramillo.  He is under team control through 2013 and should be the Cubs starting catcher until then.  However, if the Cubs give up on him, they have a couple good prospects that can step in.

Tags: Catching, Chicago Cubs, Geovany Soto, Steve Clevenger, Wellington Castillo