Chicago Cubs trade Miguel Montero to the Toronto Blue Jays
On Monday, the Chicago Cubs traded catcher Miguel Montero to the Toronto Blue Jays.
Sometimes, life comes at you fast. Miguel Montero seemed on solid ground as the Chicago Cubs‘ backup catcher. He had obvious throwing issues behind the plate, but Montero was a solid veteran presence who is an elite framer and had been a strong offensive player (112 wRC+ on the year).
Unfortunately, in a game against the Washington Nationals about a week ago, Montero’s inability to throw out baserunners were exploited. The Nationals ran at will against Montero and Cubs’ starting pitcher Jake Arrieta, stealing seven bases without being thrown out once. After the game, Montero put the blame on Arrieta’s slow delivery to the plate. He was quickly designated for assignment by the Cubs.
Heading up North
On Monday, it was announced that Montero has been traded to the Toronto Blue Jays. The Cubs send some cash to Toronto to help pay for Montero and will receive cash considerations or a player to be named later. According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, the Cubs are paying a “vast majority” of Montero’s contract.
Not exactly a great haul for the Cubs here, but it is not like they had any leverage. They would have had to waive him soon so trading him for literally anything was a good move. Even if the Cubs get a bit of financial relief in this trade, they should be happy.
Montero’s outburst to the media obviously is not much of a concern for the Blue Jays. If he acts out in any way while playing for them, they can simply waive him without losing much. That being said, he has a chance to be a solid left-handed bat for them off of the bench.
I doubt they use Montero much behind the plate, but his offensive ability is still there.
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The Cubs will now move forward, putting the Montero situation completely behind them. Willson Contreras will continue to be the Cubs’ catcher on most days with the rookie Victor Caratini currently taking over as his backup. Do not be surprised to see the Cubs look for some sort of veteran catcher on the trade market. It does not have to be a star, but getting any sort of veteran stability behind the plate would be great.