In a bit of a surprise, the Cubs have switched backup catchers before Saturday's game:
#Cubs roster moves: Gimenez selected from Iowa, Caratini to Iowa and Navarro DFA
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) May 26, 2018
My guess is, the Cubs wanted the veteran presence of Chris Gimenez behind Willson Contreras, as well as possibly having Gimenez catch Yu Darvish, who's scheduled to start tomorrow.
Gimenez isn't hitting much at Iowa, just .224/.316/.276, but I suspect the Cubs wanted his defense. Also:
Gimenez had out in his contract and could've opted out on June 1 if he wasn't on big league roster. #Cubs
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) May 26, 2018
And so, we're likely to see Gimenez start Sunday, not just due to Darvish but also to keep Contreras rested for Monday's day game in Pittsburgh.
Efren Navarro, who was designated for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster for Gimenez, will likely clear waivers and stay at Iowa. The 40-man roster remains at 40.