The St. Louis Cardinals have had a disappointing 2023 season that has also been full of drama.  Catcher Willson Contreras has been heavily involved in rumors surrounding the team in regards to his ability to handle the pitching staff. He’s been benched by management, only to resume duties a short time later.

In 299 at-bats, he has 11 home runs and 40 RBI’s, but overall he has disappointed for St. Louis.

In his weekly notebook column, Bob Nightengale ran down a list of potential Cardinals trade pieces, and the catcher’s name was one of them.

“The Cardinals have the greatest array of talent available, with outfielders (Dylan) Carlson and (Tyler) O’Neill, infielders Tommy Edman and Paul DeJong, and catcher Willson Contreras is on the block too,” he reported.

Heading into Sunday’s game against the Cubs, the Cardinals sit at 44-55 on the season, and are 11 games back in the National League Central, sparking calls for significant action by the front office.

Contreras is currently in the first year of a five year, $87.50 MM deal with the Cardinals. He has a base salary of $18.00 MM or higher over the next four seasons and then a $17.50 MM club option in 2028 with a $5.00 MM buyout.  His contract will be a major factor in if he is dealt at this year’s trade deadline or not.