Willson Contreras — who signed a five-year, $87.5 million deal with the St. Louis Cardinals — is now considered a “potential trade item” despite having two years left on his contract, with a total of $36.5–$41.5 million still owed, according to US media reports.
Contreras is more open to waiving his no-trade clause and is open to leaving the Cardinals if a suitable deal comes along, according to recent reports.
As the team prepares for a major restructuring after trading away key players like high-salaried pitchers — like Sonny Gray — Contreras is suddenly in a delicate position: still a formidable hitter, but with a high salary and an uncertain first base position, he could easily become a “fat bait” for teams looking to make a big shot.
While Contreras has been a consistent contributor: in 2025, he hit .257/.344/.447, with 20 home runs — considered “good” offensive output at first base — and has been relatively solid defensively despite his move from catcher to a new position.
But the catch is: with a high salary, two years left on his contract, and a team option for 2028 — around $18–$18.5 million per year — owning Contreras could become a liability if his performance declines.
For a team rebuilding and needing financial leverage to invest in the future — trading a veteran like Contreras could help balance the payroll, open the door for young prospects, or simply ease financial pressure — something the Cardinals could prioritize.
According to reports, Contreras is no longer stubbornly holding on to the no-trade clause. He has met with team officials and expressed his willingness to consider a trade if the right offer comes in, although he still “wants to stay” if the Cardinals rebuild slowly.
Analysts say that if the Cardinals are willing to “take a salary” — that is, keep a few million dollars to help the team receive the trade, many teams will be willing to close the deal — because Contreras still provides a relatively stable offense + defense.
Some candidates mentioned include the Miami Marlins, Pittsburgh Pirates, and even the San Diego Padres — teams that need corner/first base strength to increase their playoff chances.
If Contreras is traded, the Cardinals will trade for young talent or future players — which fits into the accelerated rebuild process. For Contreras, it’s an opportunity to find a more stable environment, away from the salary pressure & expectations in St. Louis.
But for the receiving team, the salary difference — and potential decline — is a gamble. Contreras is past his prime as a catcher; while he still plays first base well, his long-term strength, injury avoidance, and performance are always big questions.
Willson Contreras: from “a Cardinals safe bet” to “a hot trade candidate” in just one offseason — a clear demonstration that in today’s MLB, even a multi-million dollar contract is no guarantee of security.
If the deal happens — it could be a huge opening blow to the 2025–2026 winter transfer window, and could reshape the landscape for many teams. But before the “signature,” the entire MLB is holding its breath — waiting to see if Contreras is truly “downgraded,” or finds a new home to continue his story.
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