Willson Contreras, now in his third season with the St. Louis Cardinals, has made it clear he wants to remain with the team despite swirling trade rumors near the MLB trade deadline. The first baseman, who signed a lucrative five-year, $87.5 million contract with the Cardinals in December 2022, expressed his satisfaction with the organization ahead of a crucial stretch for the club as their playoff chances dim after the All-Star break.
Contreras, 33, transitioned from his original position as a catcher with the Chicago Cubs, where he debuted in 2016, to first base with the Cardinals in 2025. This move was designed to preserve his health and extend his career longevity. Throughout his ten-year MLB tenure, Contreras has established himself as a powerful offensive player, earning three All-Star selections and building a reputation as a consistent run producer.
Contreras’s Career Contributions and Current Season Performance
Over 1,045 career games, Contreras has compiled a .258 batting average with an .812 OPS, accumulating 166 home runs and 529 RBIs. This season alone, he has appeared in 102 games with a .259 batting average and a .793 OPS, contributing 14 home runs and 61 RBIs. He is on track to set a personal record for games played in a single season, needing just 37 more appearances in the remaining 54 games to surpass his previous high of 138.
Despite the Cardinals holding a 55–53 record and facing declining postseason prospects, Contreras remains focused on his role with the team rather than seeking a move to a contender. Days before a matchup against the Miami Marlins, Contreras reaffirmed his desire to stay in St. Louis after a recent conversation with John Mozeliak, the Cardinals’ President of Baseball Operations.
Contreras’s Perspective on Staying with the Cardinals
Contreras’s remarks reflect a thoughtful and measured outlook on his career and future. He has no motivation to seek another World Series title elsewhere after achieving that milestone with the Cubs in 2016. His focus lies in continuing to contribute to the Cardinals, underscoring a loyalty that contrasts with many players’ tendency to chase championship opportunities elsewhere.
“Willson Contreras said he met recently with #STLCards POBO John Mozeliak and reiterated his desire to stay in St. Louis. Contreras said on top of being happy with the Cardinals, he has already won a World Series ring and doesn’t want to join a contender to chase another one.” — John Denton, Reporter
Implications for the Cardinals and What Lies Ahead
The Cardinals face a challenging period as their win-loss record hovers just above .500, and their playoff hopes wane. Contreras’s decision to remain with St. Louis offers the team some stability during uncertain times. His experience and offensive production remain valuable assets, particularly as the roster faces possible changes at the trade deadline. The coming weeks will reveal if the organization respects his wishes and retains its key players or opts for rebuilding moves.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the Cardinals manage their roster as the season progresses, and Contreras’s steadfast commitment could play a central role in the team’s approach to the final games. His presence reflects both dedication to the Cardinals and a thoughtful perspective on the broader arc of his career.