Cubs: 3 trade packages involving Willson Contreras
By Ryan Sikes
With change inevitable this offseason for the Cubs, a core player could very well be on the move. Let’s look at three trades that involve Willson Contreras.
Theo Epstein recently stated that he considers no player on this roster to be “untouchable” and that he’s open-minded to change. And although some conversation will occur this offseason in an attempt to lock down some of the younger core players, it’s very likely that a big piece gets moved from this Cubs team that won a disappointing 84 games last season. It was the first time that the Cubs missed the playoffs in the Joe Maddon era and since then, the two have parted ways.
Willson Contreras is, arguably, the most expendable player in the Cubs core this offseason. With a loaded catching free-agent market, Victor Caratini taking the next step in 2019, and Miguel Amaya on the way, Conteras could find himself in a different jersey next season. The 27-year-old burst onto the scene in 2016 when he smacked a home run on the first Major League pitch that he saw. Contreras was an integral piece in helping the Cubs end their World Series drought and is one of the best defensive catchers in the game.
He experienced a lackluster second half of 2018 but that was primarily due to Contreras becoming complacent with his workout routine. That being said, he bounced back nicely in 2019, earning his second consecutive All-Star start. Contreras finished with a 0.272/0.355/0.533 with 18 doubles, 2 triples, 24 home runs, and 64 RBI in 105 games.
Multiple teams in search of catching help believe Cubs catcher Willson Contreras will be available this winter. The Cubs will get creative this winter, and with a deep catching free agent market, they could trade Contreras and begin retooling under new manager David Ross.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 8, 2019
He threw out 29 percent of baserunners last year but had just 1 pickoff this year, which is likely a testament to runners respecting Contreras’ arm. For reference, he picked off 8 runners in 2018 and 7 in 2017, so perhaps the league has finally caught on. Several reports have indicated that Contreras is going to be available this offseason and he should generate a ton of interest from teams needing a catcher with some control.
Contreras is a ball of energy and a fan favorite, but as noted, fans should prepare themselves for a key player to be moved this offseason. Let’s look at three trade packages that would make sense for both parties.