3 Yadier Molina replacements Cardinals should already be eyeing

Yadier Molina replacements: Why not Willson Contreras?

Contreras is among the best defensive catchers in the game, as he’s even improved upon a perceived weak spot in his pitch framing.  The following is from Cubbies Crib:

"“Defensively, it’s hard to find a catcher better than Contreras. A little over a year ago, he was even ranked as the MLB’s best defensive catcher due to his wild pickoff attempts and cannon of an arm. He’s also improved his pitch framing – once considered a weak spot in his game.”"

At the plate, the Cubs catcher took a step back in 2021, but remains above-average at the position. Contreras slashed .237/.340/.438 in 128 games. He’s two years removed from his last All-Star appearance.

The Cardinals are unlikely to trade for Contreras straight up — that would involve sending back prospects to the Cubs, and St. Louis isn’t in the business of helping their arch rivals. However, Contreras becomes a free agent next year and all indications are he is unhappy with the Cubs.

Because of this, Contreras is likely to become a free agent, where the Cardinals can pay him what he’s worth, allowing the then 30-year-old to get revenge on his former team. The Cubs could trade Contreras at the deadline this season if they aren’t in contention, but even then, Contreras will have his pick of the litter once the Winter comes around.