Will the Chicago Cubs carry three catchers into the new campaign?

Injuries have haunted the Chicago Cubs throughout the year, claiming several members of the roster at some point. Could this shift their roster plans moving forward?

We’re deep into the first week of September with St. Louis attempting to make the Chicago Cubs’ road to the postseason a difficult one. Excuses come a dime a dozen and don’t get me wrong, and this isn’t one of those posts.

However, you have to admit that this season has been highlighted by some critical injuries that have occurred at the wrong time. Of course, no one is immune from taking a trip to the injured list and if you are, consider playing the lottery.

It’ll happen at some point in your career. Now, aside from inflammation running wild within this clubhouse, those who protect the plate from evil goers have suffered greatly.

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The first catcher to fall this season was Victor Caratini when he injured his hand during an at-bat in a rainy April contest against Pittsburgh. A hand fracture that would eventually require surgery, holding him out of action for close to four weeks.

Soon after, everyday catcher Willson Contreras was placed on the 10-day IL following a foot bruise. At the time, he wasn’t happy about the situation but understood why the team decided to take the route they did.

An unfortunate turn of events

Willson’s second injury came when Chicago held a game and a half lead over the Cardinals. Another lower-body issue only this time a hamstring that would keep him out of action for a month.

Enter veteran catcher Jonathan Lucroy. Lucroy is a well-respected player who put on an offensive showcase featuring 24 home runs, 81 RBI while fielding .994 during the 2016 season.

Martin Maldonado was a temporary solution as he was later traded. With that said, could either Caratini or Contreras find themselves in the same boat later on this Winter? It’s possible, but unlikely.

So, instead of having to shuffle their feet and stumble while attempting to find a reliable backup, why not keep Lucroy on the roster and enter the 2020 season with three catchers?

Not necessarily ideal but it’ll provide more depth than you think considering Caratini’s ability to step in for Anthony Rizzo at first base. Remember, Jonathan has made some appearances at first base as well. Flexibility is always nice, and Joe Maddon appreciates his guys being able to step in at other positions when needed.

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a Taylor Davis appearance as much as the next fan but having that extra piece without having to worry would be nice. Ignore the slight dip in offensive production over the past few years, and this 33-year-old righty has a high reward/low risk without having to fork millions of dollars for his services.

All this front-office needs to do is roll the dice. What’s the worst that could happen?