Former Eastern Kentucky University All-America catcher A.J. Lewis has made a significant move in his career by joining the Chicago Cubs major league staff for the 2025 season. With an impressive collegiate career and a successful stint in the minor leagues, Lewis brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Cubs.

A Journey from College to the Majors with A.J. Lewis

Early Collegiate Success

Lewis played two seasons at EKU from 2019 to 2020. During his senior year in 2020, he earned first team All-America recognition from Collegiate Baseball. Batting at an astonishing.451, he amassed seven doubles, three home runs, two triples, 21 RBIs, and 15 runs scored. This performance made him the only NCAA Division I player to hit.450 or better, score 15 or more runs, and drive in 20 or more during the COVID-shortened season. He was also on the Buster Posey National Collegiate Catcher of the Year Watch List in both seasons.After his collegiate career, Lewis signed a free agent contract with the Colorado Rockies organization. In four minor league seasons, he played in 193 games, hitting 13 home runs, driving in 90, walking 104 times, and posting a.732 OPS. His progress was evident as he reached AAA in 2024, hitting.314 with six doubles and a.918 OPS in just 10 games with Albuquerque.

High School and Pre-College Journey

Lewis began his baseball journey at Mount Carmel High School. He then started his collegiate career at the University of Missouri. After one season at John A. Logan College, he found his home at EKU. His diverse playing experience at different levels and institutions has shaped him into the player he is today.

Current Cubs Staff and Manager

Cubs manager Craig Counsell has assembled his second staff in Chicago. Ryan Flaherty will be the team’s bench coach, Tommy Hottovy will be the pitching coach, Dustin Kelly is the hitting coach, Jose Javier will be the first base coach, Quentin Berry will coach third base, Casey Jacobson is the assistant pitching coach, John Mallee is an assistant hitting coach, Juan Cabreja is an assistant hitting coach, and Mark Strittmatter will be the bullpen coach. Lewis will be a valuable addition to this talented group.