Free-agent catcher Willson Contreras signing 5-year deal with Cardinals: Source

Contreras turned down the Cubs’ qualifying offer on Nov. 15 and is now free agent. Chicago will get a compensatory pick after Competitive Balance Round B. Contrerais' contract is the largest free-agent deal ever by the Cardinals for a player who didn't previously play for the club.

Willson Contreras is signing a five-year deal with the Cardinals worth $87.5 million. Contrreas was released by the Chicago Cubs on November 15. The contract is the largest free-agent deal ever by Cardinals for a player who didn't previously play for the club.

Willson Contreras signed as an undrafted free agent with the Cubs in 2009. He was promoted to the major-league team in 2016 and was the only remaining active position player from Chicago’s 2016 World Series roster at the end of last season. Contrreas turned down the qualifying offer on Nov. 15 and headed into free agency.

Willson Contreras has spent all seven years of his career with the Chicago Cubs. He was an All-Star for the Cubs in 2022. Contrreas is coming off an age-30 season in which he hit .243/.349/.466 with 22 home runs. He caught a veteran-laden staff during a World Series run as a rookie.

The Cardinals signed a catcher from San Diego. Oli Marmol describes him as a good competitor. The manager hopes to sign a long-term catcher. John Mozeliak is optimistic about the signing. He secured a top free agent from the Cardinals’ biggest rival.

Willson Contreras signed a five-year contract with the Cardinals. He will replace Yadier Molina. Contrreas spent most of his career in the minors. The Cubs ended their 108-years championship drought with him. He has a strong arm, good glove skills and a .800 career OPS.

Willson Contreras signed a 5-year deal with the Cardinals. The Cubs want to replace him with a defense-first catcher. They have already met Christian Vázquez, done background work on Omar Narváez and discussed Tucker Barnhart.