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Polarizing former Cubs fan favorite seems to have finally found a home with Red Sox

Now, about the drama?
Jun 29, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (40) bats against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Jun 29, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (40) bats against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Willson Contreras has become somewhat of a divisive former Chicago Cubs player. There's no question that he was a fan favorite during his time with the Cubs, but upon his upon his immediate departure to the St. Louis Cardinals, Contreras did himself no favors with Cubs fans.

Contreras' run with the Cardinals ended with zero playoff appearances, and he was traded to the Boston Red Sox last offseason. Contreras' early months with the Red Sox haven't been without controversy, but there's no question he's enjoying the best season of his career.

At the All-Star break, Contreras boasts an OPS of .921 through 364 plate appearances, with 20 home runs. Contreras was named to the American League All-Star team, and he was also a participant in the Home Run Derby. Setting aside the benches-clearing incidents he's been involved in this season, the impression is that he's finally found a home with the Red Sox.

Former Cubs fan favorite or not, Willson Contreras has found a new home

Getting ahead of any potential trade deadline rumors, Contreras told Mass Live's Chris Cotillo that he wouldn't be willing to waive his no-trade clause. In fact, the impression is that Contreras wants to finish his career in Boston.

“I mean, I like Boston,” Contreras told the Red Sox insider. “I don’t want to just leave because of the situation. I like challenges, I like the team, I love my guys and I love the teammates. They’re great persons, great people. That’s what I appreciate the most. Every day they show up to the clubhouse, they’re willing to listen and they’re willing to learn. That’s why I went ahead and said something."

For months, the indication was that the Red Sox were going to be sellers at the deadline. Contreras' contract is up after the 2027 season, but it also includes a club option for the 2028. He likely would have been a named bandied about before the deadline, but the circumstances surrounding Boston have also changed. The Red Sox are suddenly one of the hottest teams in baseball, and have returned to contention.

That reality, beyond Conteras, could also throw a wrench in the Cubs plans at the trade deadline. Red Sox pitchers Aroldis Chapman and Sonny Gray would be clear targets for the Cubs, but they are also probably off the table right now.

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