Cubs: Cross 1 team off Willson Contreras’ potential trade list

While the Chicago Cubs could receive an impressive prospect package for Willson Contreras, don’t expect the Astros to come calling.

The Astros weak offensive production from the catcher position would make them an ideal fit for Contreras, who brings All-Star potential with him, especially from the dish.

However, Houston is particularly happy with what they’re getting defensively from Martin Maldonado, and how he continues to help mold their young pitching staff.

The following, per Ken Rosenthal, would make it seem unlikely a trade for a catcher is on the horizon:

"“Astros players and coaches revere the defensive work of Martín Maldonado, who was the alternate catcher to Robinson Chirinos on their 2019 World Series club and the regular during their 2021 Series run. The front office is aware of the sentiment in the clubhouse and in agreement with it, making it unlikely the team would displace Maldonado, according to sources familiar with the team’s thinking.”"

Maldonado is hitting just .153 on the season thus far — an obvious weakness on his part. He’s a guaranteed out nearly nine out of every 10 plate appearances. That’s not good enough come playoff time.

But dealing away top prospects for Contreras might not be the answer, especially considering he’s a free agent after this season.

Astros rumors: Houston out on Cubs catcher Willson Contreras

As Rosenthal notes, Contreras would be great in a DH role, but the Astros already possess one of the game’s best designated hitters in Yordan Alvarez. So, there is no natural fit within Houston’s lineup for a player the caliber of Contreras, despite the fact that offensive production at catcher is a significant weakness for them moving forward.

Houston does not have high expectations for Maldonado — he has a career OPS of .632. That would be sufficient.

Contreras isn’t in the cards for Houston, but he could be a logical fit in San Francisco, among other teams, as a rental.