At this time subsequent month, Willson Contreras may be carrying a unique major-league uniform.
If he has his manner, although, the Chicago Cubs catcher gained’t be going wherever. Thirteen years after signing with the group as a youngster from Venezuela, Contreras is a three-time All-Star. Fans voted Contreras because the National League beginning catcher for the Midsummer Classis on July 19 at Dodger Stadium.
A grateful Contreras was in disbelief Friday afternoon, minutes after supervisor David Ross introduced the information within the clubhouse.
“He deserves everything coming his way, he’s done a phenomenal job for us,” Ross mentioned. “
Contreras mentioned he works yearly to make an All-Star workforce. This marks his third All-Star Game begin, making him solely the second Cubs catcher to perform the feat, becoming a member of Gabby Hartnett (1934, 1936-37).
“This means everything to me, being here 13 years,” Contreras mentioned. “I’m really thankful and proud of everything that I’ve done here.”
Contreras has remained diplomatic and clear since spring coaching about his future with the Cubs. An impending free agent, Contreras noticed what occurred along with his 2016 World Series teammates a 12 months in the past on the commerce deadline. Contreras regularly has mentioned his method to take the season daily and never look too far forward. But he understands that with out the edges reaching a contract extension earlier than the Aug. 2 commerce deadline, his time in Chicago is probably going nearing its finish.
It makes this All-Star Game, presumably a final hurrah with the Cubs, further significant.
“I hope this is not my last time wearing the Cubs jersey, to be honest,” Contreras mentioned. “I don’t see myself going wherever else, however that is enterprise and we must perceive the enterprise now. If the Cubs can get a extremely good package deal for myself, they’re going to do it. If they don’t do it, I’ll be greater than grateful and proud to remain right here with the Cubs and my teammates.
“But as of right now, I don’t see myself wearing another uniform.”
Contreras, 30, has made his want for his baseball future clear.
“I would love nothing more than play for the Chicago Cubs the rest of my life,” Contreras mentioned. “Obviously those kind of things are out of my control, but I’m really excited and proud and humbled to be a Chicago Cub.”
However, barring contract talks over the following 3½ weeks resulting in a long-term deal, Contreras won’t be a lifelong Cub. Fans can be pressured to look at one other All-Star and World Series champion depart because the group rebuilds and overhauls a roster that delivered 5 postseason appearances in six years. Contreras is seemingly prepared to stay by what’s positioned to be a difficult stretch for the group.
Contreras’ profession 12 months offensively coincides with fewer innings behind the plate because of having a dependable backup in veteran Yan Gomes and the addition of the designated hitter to the NL. Ross pointed to Contreras’ manufacturing getting a lift from his physique being more energizing and having his legs beneath him extra persistently.
“He’s gotten a ton of love and recognition for being an All-Star outstanding player,” Ross mentioned. “You don’t get it for one facet. He’s a complete player.”
Contreras hopes his brother, William, may also obtain a spot on the NL All-Star workforce after ending second to Bryce Harper for the beginning DH spot.
For now, he’s attempting to remain within the second.
“It’s overwhelming for sure, I have a lot of things in my head right now,” Contreras mentioned. “I’m really proud of everything.”
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Source: www.bostonherald.com