MLB Rumors: Willson Contreras trade suitor, Reds surprise move, Giolito war

MLB Rumors: Who would trade for Cardinals catcher Willson Contreras?

The St. Louis Cardinals are willing to admit defeat in their decision to sign Willson Contreras this winter. It was a bold move for the Cards, who were looking for a natural replacement for Yadier Molina.

Contreras hasn’t delivered as the Cardinals had hoped. Whether that is fair to him or not is anyone’s guess, as Contreras has never been a defensive stalwart. He’s most known for his bat, and frankly projects better as a long-term first baseman or designated hitter.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that Contreras could be on the trade radar over the weekend. Any deal would be surprising given the number of years left on his current contract, and the salary involved. If one team were to take a chance on him for relatively cheap, however, it would be the Houston Astros.

Houston catcher Martin Maldonado doesn’t contribute much at the plate. He’s earned the trust of the pitching staff. The Astros also have a hole at first base, and with the proper training, Contreras could project there long term and fill a void. At his best, Contreras is a solid hitter, and might be even better without the pressures of handling a pitching staff.

St. Louis wants pitching. While Houston can’t offer much of that right now due to injuries in their rotation, the Cardinals could take a flyer on a player like Colton Gordon, a 24-year-old Double-A pitcher who has excelled in the Astros farm system of late. He’s the No. 8 prospect in the Houston system, and if the Cards are willing to pay some of Contreras’ salary, he’s surely available.