Cardinals trade rumors swirl around former Cubs All-Star turned villain

Willson Contreras' time with the St. Louis Cardinals has been far from smooth. Once admired by Chicago Cubs fans, he quickly became a villain by gushing over being on the Cardinals' side of the rivalry. A side that has not only seen Contreras forced out of his role as a catcher, but also throwing a tantrum like a petulant child when things don't go his way.

Making things even more comedic for the former Cubs' All-Star is that St. Louis' three-year playoff drought coincides with his arrival on a five-year deal worth $87.5 million. It's why it's become a sad look to watch Contreras with the Cardinals, as he remains a fine offensive option for any starting lineup he is in, but is constantly creating headaches.

The playoff drought is among the reasons why Chaim Bloom is now serving as the Cardinals' president of baseball operations, and in his first offseason with the Cubs' rivals, he is ushering out the old. In other words, Bloom is trying to rid the Cardinals of the veterans with aging contracts, and he started the effort last month with the trade of Sonny Gray.

Despite his previous desires, Willson Contreras' change in tune may hint at the Cardinals' next move.

Next up for the Cardinals may not only be trading veteran third baseman, but also trading Contreras. Despite Contreras previously stating his desire to remain with the team, The Athletic's Katie Woo (Subscription Required) reports that Contreras isn't just open to waiving his no-trade clause, but has an increased willingness to do so for the right fit.

In other words, Conteras isn't getting younger, and rather than being the old guy in the middle of a rebuilding roster, he wants to experience the playoffs once again before calling it a career. Bloom certainly could have the Cardinals on track, but they may not be ready to contend until the end of Contreras' deal in 2027.

Honestly, the sooner that Contreras is out of the National League Central, the better it will be for Cubs fans. Again, Contreras remains talented as an offensive player, but it seems that he is only making headlines nowadays for feeling disrespected--something that is happening far too often for someone who became a headache in the Cubs' clubhouse during his final season with the team. At some point, Contreras should look in the mirror, but he rarely proves capable of having that level of awareness.