Cubs Catcher Chooses Free Agency Over Assignment To Triple-A Iowa

While it was thought he could move up with the Contreras departure, the Cubs opted to sign veteran catcher Tucker Barnhart.

Keeping Higgins on the Cubs’ 40-man roster meant having four catchers on their roster.

While Barnhart was one catcher, the Cubs also have Yan Gomes and Miguel Amaya.

With these players on the roster, the Cubs felt Higgins belonged in the minors.

However, Higgins isn’t feeling the same and would rather test out the free agency market.

With Barnhart having a lackluster 2022 season, it’s clear why Higgins will test out free agency.

Compared to Barnhart, Higgins’ offensive numbers are better.

While he was struggling with the Cubs in 2022, his .229 average, six home runs, 30 RBIs, and .693 OPS in 201 plate appearances are all better than Barnhart.

Barnhart’s numbers for 2022 saw him with a .221 average, one home run, 16 RBIs, and .554 OPS in 281 plate appearances.

If he can get a contract with these offensive numbers, it’s possible that Higgins feels another team will value him the same way.

While he had some great seasons in the minors, he never took off in the majors.

With that in mind, the Cubs were fine with letting him walk in 2023.