Chicago Cubs: 3 current players to keep and build around

C Victor Caratini

I don’t believe franchise catchers grow on trees, and the Cubs potentially have two in Wilson Contreras and Victor Caratini. While Willy has had the majority of opportunities (namely because of his bat), I’m more convinced that Victor is the guy to keep around long term.

Willy has had his issues behind the plate in terms of framing and game management, whereas Caratini played a significant role in Yu Darvish back from the pit of despair and putting him back in the Cy Young conversation.

While Darvish may not be around much longer, Caratini has the potential to be the big brother to any of the potential young pitchers the Cubs may get as a result of trades.

It’s no secret that Caratini is good enough to start on any other team that doesn’t have Wilson Contreras, but perhaps he should get his shot now while Contreras is shopped around.

He’s young at 27 years old and could hold down the fort behind the plate at a less expensive rate than Wilson. If Caratini proves to be a better hitter with his expanded plate opportunities, then he could be used as a future trade asset as the Cubs progress into their rebuild.

As for now, he should the one catcher to stay in Cubby blue.