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The Cuban catcher José Yunior Muñiz reached a verbal agreement with the Chicago Cubs to officially sign starting January 15, 2027, when a new international signing period opens, for a bonus estimated at around 1.5 million dollars, according to revealed by journalist Francys Romero.
Muñiz, a native of Havana, is regarded by several scouts as a potential prospect for the Major Leagues and has drawn comparisons to the star Venezuelan catcher Salvador Pérez, both for his physique and his offensive potential and leadership behind the plate.
The young catcher is currently training at the academy of former Major Leaguer Alex Sánchez, one of the most recognized development centers for Cuban talent.
According to the information, multiple MLB organizations expressed genuine interest in the Habanero catcher, which increased his value in the international market. Ultimately, the Cubs managed to secure a deal that stands out in a historically unfavorable context for Cuban catchers, who have traditionally been undervalued compared to other positions in the international signing system.
The Muñiz deal stands out not only for the amount but also for the message it conveys to the market: Cuban talent in catching is beginning to gain greater recognition, breaking a trend of years in which few catchers from the Island attained high bonuses.
If the signing takes place in 2027, José Yunior Muñiz will join Chicago's minor league system with high expectations and the challenge of proving on the field the projections that currently place him among the most promising Cuban catchers of his generation.
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