Call to the pen
Fansided

Los Angeles Angels reportedly have sights set on Willson Contreras

By David Hill

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 03: Willson Contreras #40 of the Chicago Cubs in action during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on September 3, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 03: Willson Contreras #40 of the Chicago Cubs in action during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on September 3, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

The Los Angeles Angels’ quest for a catcher may end up reuniting manager Joe Maddon with his former catcher – Willson Contreras.

The Los Angeles Angels have been looking for a catcher throughout the offseason. While Max Stassi had a solid 2020 campaign, he could miss the beginning of the upcoming season. Neither he nor backup option Anthony Bemboom have exactly established themselves in the majors to this point in their careers. An upgrade could make sense.

The Angels have been pursuing one for much of the offseason. They had been linked to James McCann before he signed with the Mets, and have been consistently listed as a suitor for J.T. Realmuto. If the Angels are to make a move at catcher, they are eyeing a major upgrade.

It is not a surprise that the Angels would also explore potential upgrades on the trade market. As such, it is not a surprise that they have been linked to Cubs catcher Willson Contreras, potentially reuniting him with manager Joe Maddon.

More Angels. Maddon thinks Adell needs more time in minors. light

Contreras had another solid season at the plate in 2020. He produced a .243/.356/.407 batting line in his 225 plate appearances, hitting seven homers and ten doubles, drawing 20 walks while striking out 57 times. That production would add another impact bat to a strong Angels lineup.

He has also been an excellent defensive catcher. Contrereas threw out 34.6% of would be basestealers last year, ranking fourth in the NL. Over his five years in the majors, he has saved 13 runs while throwing out 32% of basestealers, providing a solid defensive presence behind the plate.

Contreras would also be more than a one year rental. He has two years of team control left, and at 28 years old, could be a potential candidate for an extension. The Angels do have money coming off the books after this season, as Albert Pujols‘ albatross of a contract will finally expire, potentially allowing them to lock Contreras in for a longer term should they acquire him.

Next. The most talented player in baseball. dark

The Los Angeles Angels are still looking for a catcher. According to reports, their sights are now set on Cubs backstop Willson Contreras.

Home/Chicago Cubs