Miguel Amaya, who turned 21 Monday, is soaking up the everyday experience in his first big league camp. Amaya is learning from Cubs starting catcher Willson Contreras, a two-time All-Star, and backup Victor Caratini.
"I go out with Willie and Caratini every day to do the pregame routine with the pitchers," Amaya said. "They talk to me about calling games and preparing with scouting reports. At this level, we get a lot of information on how to pitch to hitters. They have taught me how to recognize if the hitter is looking comfortable or not adjusting to certain pitches."
Amaya is the Cubs' fourth-ranked prospect, per MLB Pipeline. He already has the defensive skills to play in the big leagues, according to some talent evaluators.
"The young man has been impressive from our observations," an American League scouting director said. "He has a strong arm and quick release. Our scouts love his leadership skills in game. The bat is coming on as well. The Cubs have a good one there."
Amaya hit .235 with 11 homers, 57 RBIs and a .753 OPS in 99 games at advanced Class-A Myrtle Beach in 2019. He showcased plate discipline by posting a .351 on-base percentage.
"I got a little stronger last year and was able to handle pitches and hit some home runs," Amaya said. "I do not think about hitting the ball out of the park. I want to use the whole field and hit line drives."
Amaya is scheduled to start at Double-A Tennessee in 2020. His timeline for reaching the big leagues remains unclear, but it figures to hinge in large part on whether he can produce more consistently offensive and cut down on his strikeouts.
Amaya has struggled offensively in his first taste of Cactus League play, hitting .160 (4-of-25) with eight strikeouts in 13 games.
"The movement of pitches and better control of the pitchers is something I will be learning about," Amaya said. "Looking to make solid contact is my main goal. Trying to hit the ball toward the middle of the field has been my focus. Making the pitcher throw the pitch you want to swing at is the goal. They are trying to make me chase pitches out of the zone. That is the challenge."