Chicago Cubs: Missing out on Rene Rivera hints at team’s backup catcher plans

Is another familiar face a fit in Chicago?

Since the Cubs have a young, still-improving core of players and an opening at backup catcher, a veteran could make sense. Add in the fact they’re the only team in baseball to go to the League Championship Series the last three seasons, and they get even more attractive.

Earlier this winter, Alex Avila spoke to MLB Network Radio, telling them he prioritizing winning over his role. If this indeed is the case, Chicago may be the perfect fit. One question, however, remains. Money.

All about the money

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If Avila ends up signing to be a backup catcher next year, he will get paid more than the typical backup. But if a playoff team signs him to be their backup catcher, that team is going to want to pay Avila less than a starter. How much less is Avila willing to take to be the Cubs’ backup catcher?

If he is willing to accept a reasonable salary to be the Cubs’ backup, he could be a weapon for Joe Maddon. Usually, when a team has a backup catcher with a great bat, managers are reluctant to use him as a pinch-hitter.

They don’t want to burn a catcher in case the starting catcher gets injured. That has not been a problem for the Cubs in the past and shouldn’t be a problem this season.