LA Angels Trade Market: Making Blockbuster Deals With Every NL Central Team

Chicago Cubs

Another big time trade for the Halos here, as they address a position of real need. After non-tendering Kevan Smith, the only catchers they have on roster are Max Stassi (who might not be ready for Opening Day) and Anthony Bemboom (who has 54 career at-bats in the MLB).

So why not reunite Joe Maddon and his former backstop?

The Cubs are a team who are very stressed financially, and will be looking to offload at least one of their young stars this winter. Willson Contreras make the most sense, and the Angels need to make sure he lands in Anaheim.

It goes without saying how much of an impact Contreras would have in Anaheim. He’s elite both on offense and defense, and is still only 27-years old. The Angels would have club-control for three seasons, and could have their answer at catcher for the next 5-7 years if everything goes according to plan.

Obviously the price for this type of player would be steep. The Cubs would test the waters on Jo Adell, but would quickly be denied. Brandon Marsh is a rock solid fallback option though. He continues to exceed expectations, and could honestly find himself as a top 50 prospect in baseball at some point this season. His defense, power, and athleticism all pop. The Cubs could do much worse than Marsh in a return for Contreras.