Chicago Cubs Rumors: Looking at the Cubs’ potential trade pieces

Get yourself a man who can do both

A catcher who can do it all would fetch a hefty return, but the Cubs would be wise to hang onto Willson Contreras.

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The Venezuelan is enjoying a breakout season offensively and is already one of the best defensive backstops in baseball. In only his second year, Contreras has demonstrated that he’s one of the most valuable players on the team.

Offensive catchers with the upside of Contreras are a rarity nowadays. Yes the team could get an absolute haul in exchange for him, but the Cubs can’t afford to let go a player that they can’t readily replace. They have Victor Caratini in the minors and the money to spend on another catcher, but would they be as good as Contreras is now?

He’s also been on a tear of-late. Hitting .345 with .406 OBP and 1.069 OPS, he’s becoming even more valuable to the team as they fight for a playoff spot.

The Cubs’ front office is more likely working on an extension rather than a trade package. As they should, since Contreras’ importance to the team is too high. Out of all the young position players the Cubs have (minus Bryant), Contreras might be the most valuable of all.

Verdict