Willson Contreras rumors: 5 best destinations and why

4) Willson Contreras rumors might include a long-term deal with the San Francisco Giants

It’s Aaron Judge who will be the focus for the San Francisco Giants. If he does return to the New York Yankees or goes somewhere else, the Giants can always pivot and add several players to the roster instead of one mammoth slugger.

Contreras was a logical fit for the Giants at the trade deadline until the team decided to not become buyers. They sold mildly. For the most part, they kept the club together.

The Giants have the underwhelming option of continuing with Joey Bart as the starting catcher next year. Contreras would be a major upgrade to the lineup. Offensive prowess was something the 2022 starting nine rarely had. The front office is fully expected to explore several options to give it a boost.

San Francisco might have other priorities before getting themselves involved in any Willson Contreras rumors. He’s still a fit. He’s someone they could use.

5) Willson Contreras rumors will include the Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays were one of the teams discussed as a possible trade deadline destination for the All-Star catcher in 2022. Could they have advanced a round with him on the roster? It’s possible. We’ll never know.

Free agency isn’t the time when the Rays are especially active. We know the drill. The Rays develop players that are eventually traded away as they near free agency. They’ll occasionally spend in the open market. Contreras would be a bigger buy for them. It’s unlikely yet not impossible.

The way his market develops will determine whether or not the Rays are involved in any Willson Contreras rumors. Other teams passing on him for different catchers could end up as the only way he does sign with them.

The Rays have the kind of ball club that can compete even without a massive payroll. They will need to spend a little more in order to go from competitive to serious contender. It can help a lot to have a player like Contreras around.