Cleveland Indians: 3 trade deadline catchers within Tribe’s price range

Willson Contreras, Chicago Cubs

To get a player like Willson Contreras, the front office of the Cleveland Indians might have to stretch the bank a little. However, if there’s a player that is worth doing that for, it might be Willson Contreras. His 2021 campaign is a bit down from his career stats, but the potential for second half surge is absolutely there.

The barrier that the team will need to get over is his contract. Contreras is making $6.65 million this year and will have just one year of arbitration left. If Contreras was in Cleveland, his contract would be the third most expensive behind only Jose Ramirez and Eddie Rosario.

As for on the field, Contreras has fallen a bit short of expectations which could go push the Cubs to move him while also lowering his price tag on the trade market. His fielding percentage is a career mark of .989, including two errors this season.

At the plate, though, Contreras is having his worst season to date. He’s slashing just .226/.322/.406 with five doubles. Now, he does have 11 home runs, tied for fourth among catchers in all of baseball.

So if the Tribe need an offensive catcher, why trade for someone who is struggling? Well, Contreras has proven he can be productive with a bat in his hand and the power is intriguing. His average should bounce back in time and now might be the chance to buy-low. The only problem is his contract would make for a very expensive backup or even a platoon.