Chicago Cubs: Victor Caratini raking as he defends his spot on the roster

Chicago Cubs: Keep an eye on these veteran backstops

We’ve talked quite a bit about some names to keep an eye on this offseason when it comes to catchers. A.J. Ellis could make a lot of sense, especially on a one-year deal given his age, former Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy would be a nice add for the team – but he’ll likely have a deeper market than someone like Ellis.

Former Cubs backstop Rene Rivera is still looking for a new home, as well. We know about Epstein’s penchant for going with guys he knows – so I wouldn’t be particularly shocked to see Rivera back on a one-year pact, either.

The real question is simple. Do you trust Victor Caratini to lighten the load on Willson Contreras? Because if you don’t, the team has to go out and add someone they feel can mentor Contreras and allow him to focus on getting back to what made him an All-Star early this year.

Time will tell – but the backup catcher market will definitely be something to keep an eye on as we approach another year of Chicago Cubs baseball with pitchers and catchers reporting to Mesa in just about a month and a half.