St. Louis Cardinals: 3 free agents to sign and 1 to avoid this offseason

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 31: Carlos Rodon #16 of the San Francisco Giants pitches against the Chicago Cubs in the top of the first inning at Oracle Park on July 31, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 31: Carlos Rodon #16 of the San Francisco Giants pitches against the Chicago Cubs in the top of the first inning at Oracle Park on July 31, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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Cubs, Red Sox, Willson Contreras
Willson Contreras, Chicago Cubs (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

The Cardinals should sign Willson Contreras

Contreras has been the rumored top target for the Cardinals in filling their need for a top-tier catcher. While die-hard Cardinals fans may scoff at the thought of the former Cubs star joining their beloved team, he does check off what the Cardinals are seeking.

When you look at his numbers, it may be easier for Cardinals fans to push past it.

In a season in which Contreras didn’t know if he was coming or going from the Chicago Cubs, he hit .243/.349/.466 with an OPS of .815 in 416 at-bats. He had 22 home runs, four stolen bases, and 55 RBI. Not bad for what had to be a stressful situation.

Former Cardinals pitcher Jose Quintana talked up the club when asked about the team’s situation. So that’s a good sign.

Contreras should earn a nice payday with substantial commitment. With Herrera expected to take over the role at some point, it’s not clear how long a commitment the Cardinals will want to give. This could mean the Cardinals may look in another direction, but they could get exactly what they need from Contreras and should seriously be considering him.