(670 The Score) Cubs catcher Willson Contreras soaked it all in Sunday.
In what was likely his final home game as a member of the organization, Contreras got several thunderous ovations from the Wrigley Field faithful, including upon his exit in the eighth inning after drawing a walk. Then after the game, Contreras repaid the respect, giving the fans a farewell salute after the Cubs’ 8-1 win against the Reds.
Contreras is in the final year of his contract with the Cubs and didn’t reach a long-term extension with them, putting him on a path to hit free agency in November. He has spoken recently with a sense of resignation that a parting of the ways is coming, even though he also hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning to the Cubs on a qualifying offer. He has acknowledged the market will decide his next destination and that he wants to go somewhere where he’s wanted.
“I know this is the last game of the season, especially the last home game of my journey with the Cubs,” Contreras told Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago before the game Sunday. “Just going to go out there with my head up high and keep doing the best for this team into the last day.”
Contreras went 0-for-3 with a run and a walk Sunday. He joined the Cubs as an international free agent in 2009 and debuted for their big league team in 2016.
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