The Chicago Cubs traded away most of their World Series-winning core. So, it was only natural to think that Willson Contreras was next in line when they signed Yan Gomes as his backup in the offseason.
Multiple teams were reportedly keeping tabs on one of the best catchers in MLB, as he's set to become a free agent at the end of the campaign. However, he's still with the team a quarter into the season.
Contreras hasn't shut the door on coming back to the Cubs and seems unfazed by his situation. He's set to go through an arbitration hearing with the team and whatever happens, happens:
“Sure. That doesn’t bother me. We’re already going to have a hearing soon anyway," Contreras told the media. "We’re going to have to go through a hearing, and whatever happens there is going to happen, so it doesn’t bother me at all."
But regardless of that hearing, most people still think Contreras won't finish the season at Wrigley Field. One of those people is Jim Bowden of The Athletic, who recently predicted the Yankees will go after him before the deadline:
"I’ll go with the bold prediction of Willson Contreras. I know Brian Cashman and Jed Hoyer are reading this, so please make it happen so I’m right," Bowden wrote.
The Venezuelan veteran has taken a mature approach to his situation. He knows people will talk about potential trades and free agency, but there's not much he can do to shut down all speculation:
“Man, those are things that I can’t control,” Contreras said. “I’m just focused on doing the best for this team, finding the best way to help the team, and whatever happens in the middle of the season is going to happen. I’m at peace with myself. I’m at peace with my mind. And whatever happens, even during the season or after the season, is going to be fine with me.”
But even though he's not focused on his next move, Contreras would certainly welcome a move to The Bronx.
The Yankees have been the best team in the American League by a long stretch this season, boasting a dominant rotation, a solid bullpen, and one of the most productive offenses in all of baseball.
Certainly, leaving home after 13 years will be a tough blow for anybody, especially after all he's been through with the organization. But if he were to leave, there would be no better place to go at this moment than Yankee Stadium.
