Cubs biggest trade chip says goodbye to teammates, Wrigley faithful

Cubs catcher Willson Contreras likely played his final home game at Wrigley Field on Tuesday, saying an emotional goodby to teammates and fans.

Tuesday’s win at Wrigley Field had to be a bittersweet experience for Cubs fans.

They watched their team beat the Pirates, 4-2, thanks to RBI doubles from Ian Happ and Nico Hoerner and a home run from Seiya Suzuki.

But they also watched as catch Willson Contreras said his goodbyes to the hometown faithful.

Cubs trade chip Willson Contreras says goodbye to teammates, Wrigley faithful

“I love you all. Thanks for everything. Thank you for everything you guys did for me and my family,” Contreras said. “I’ve got a lot of good relationships with some friends from Chicago. I’m pretty sure I’m going to love it forever. Thank you for everything. I wish that I could play for you guys but this is a business and I understand that. I love you all.”

Contreras gave lengthy hugs to teammates, including Ian Happ in the dugout.

The catcher hasn’t necessarily played his final game for the Cubs, who are heading on a road trip to San Francisco before the MLB trade deadline on Aug. 2. By the time Chicago makes to St. Louis for their series starting on deadline day, Contreras should have a new home.

Where might he land? The Rays have been linked to the catcher, particularly after losing Mike Zunino to season-ending surgery. The Mets appear to be a major player in trade talks. The Yankees and Astros could also be involved.

The clock is ticking to get something done before the deadline. It’s not a matter of if the trade will go through though. The goodbyes from Willson at Wrigley all but confirm he’ll land somewhere in the next week.