© Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Cubs catcher Miguel Montero is no longer Cubs catcher Miguel Montero despite having one of the better seasons in his 12-year career. According to Jesse Rogers of ESPN Chicago, the Cubs have designated him for assignment, and Buster Olney adds that the club is calling up catcher Victor Caratini from AAA Iowa.The reason for the move appears to be Montero's mouth. After allowing seven stolen bases during Jake Arrieta's start last night, Montero essentially blamed the Cubs ace for making him look bad.
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"It really sucked because the stolen bases go to me, and when you really look at it, the pitcher doesn't give me any time," Montero said. "So it's just like, 'Yeah ok Miggy can't throw nobody out,' but my pitcher doesn't hold anybody on. …
Previously, Montero complained to the press about poor communication with Joe Maddon and lack of playing time. Neither outburst escaped Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo who laced into Montero on a local radio station, saying it was surprising that a veteran like him was not able to "make smart decisions" about venting his frustration to the press. Then he went for the jugular."That's the reason why they were running left and right today because they know he was slow to the plate. Simple as that. It's a shame that it's my fault because I didn't throw anybody out."
"We win as a team and we lose at a team. When you start pointing fingers, I think that labels you as a selfish player."
Montero has thrown out only 1 of 32 base runners this year."We have another catcher who throws everyone out who steals."