2017 has been more of the same
With his stellar performance during the 2016 season, Contreras won the starting catching job in 2017. With veteran Miguel Montero likely past his prime, and Kyle Schwarber slated to play more in the outfield, it was Contreras’ to lose.
More from Cubbies Crib
- Cubs: P.J. Higgins deserves to be in the lineup on a daily basis
- Cubs might start to limit Justin Steele’s workload soon
- Cubs: Adrian Sampson is forcing his way into the conversation
- Projecting the Chicago Cubs bullpen to open the 2023 season
- Cubs fans are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel
Even though Contreras is off to a slow start offensively, he is still providing solid defense behind the plate.
In 60 games as a catcher, Contreras has thrown out 15 runners. Despite having allowed 30 stolen bases, Contreras still owns a 33 percent caught stealing rate, which is above the league average of 28 percent.
Currently, Contreras leads the majors with ten errors committed behind the plate. On the flip side of that, Contreras leads all catchers with 54 assists. He also ranks tied for third with five double plays turned as a catcher. In addition to that, Contreras currently ranks third in runners caught stealing.