Willson Contreras: A Complete MLB Profile
Willson Contreras has become one of modern baseball’s most intriguing players — known not just for his power bat and leadership but also his adaptability, analytical edge, and contract value. In this comprehensive breakdown, we’ll cover everything from his age and background to his advanced Savant metrics, contract details, ESPN statistics, career highlights, and lasting impact on the game.
Early Life and Baseball Beginnings
Willson Eduardo Contreras was born on May 13, 1992, in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. From a young age, Contreras showcased impressive athletic ability, especially with the bat and behind the plate — traits that drew the attention of MLB scouts early on. The Venezuelan catcher signed as an international free agent in 2009, entering professional baseball with high expectations.
Contreras made his MLB debut on June 17, 2016, at age 24, quickly establishing himself as a dynamic presence both offensively and defensively. His emergence came during an era when catcher offense was at a premium, helping him earn recognition early in his career.
Age & Physical Profile
As of the 2025 season, Willson Contreras is 33 years old — a veteran presence with over nine years of Big League experience. His physical profile reads:
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Height: 6’1″
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Weight: ~240 lbs
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Bats/Throws: Right/Right
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Birthplace: Puerto Cabello, Venezuela
This blend of size and strength contributes to his power potential at the plate and has enabled him to transition from a long-term catcher to a first baseman role in later seasons — something rare at this stage of a catcher’s career.
Career Path: Cubs to Cardinals (and Beyond)
Chicago Cubs Era (2016–2022)
Contreras spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Chicago Cubs, where he quickly became one of the franchise’s most beloved players. A three-time MLB All-Star during his Cubs tenure, he helped anchor the team’s lineup and defensive scheme behind the plate.
He was notable for both his offensive flare and his strong throwing arm, which helped him earn a reputation as a top catching talent in the National League.
St. Louis Cardinals (2023–2025)
In the 2022 offseason, Contreras signed a five-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals, reportedly worth $87.5 million and running through 2027 with a club option for 2028.
This move marked a new chapter in Contreras’s career — one where he shifted his role from primarily catching to more time at first base and designated hitter duties. Transitioning positions is never easy, especially for a catcher, but Contreras’s athleticism and baseball IQ allowed him to adapt effectively.
2025 Season Snapshot:
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Batting Average (AVG): .257
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Home Runs (HR): 20
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Runs Batted In (RBI): 80
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On-Base + Slugging (OPS): .791
Unfortunately, a shoulder injury in late 2025 ended his season early, reflecting the challenges aging players face but also underscoring his impact while healthy.
Baseball Savant Metrics & Analytical Edge
Statcast and Baseball Savant data have provided new insights into Contreras’s value — both offensively and defensively.
Offensive Insights
Contreras consistently posts above-average numbers in key Statcast metrics:
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Hard-hit rate: High relative to league averages
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Barrel percentage: Indicative of his power potential
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wOBA and wRC+ metrics: Often above league average
These advanced numbers underline Contreras’s ability to generate offense even when traditional stats don’t fully capture his impact.
Defensive Savvy
While much of his early reputation was built on catcher defense, Contreras’s move to first base has added a fresh layer to his defensive profile:
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He recorded notable Outs Above Average (OAA) metrics at first base in 2025, suggesting smooth transition skills.
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His framing and arm strength, while less critical at first base than behind the plate, still reflect his overall athletic toolkit.
Analysis shows that Contreras’s versatility and analytical approach have allowed teams to extract value even as positional demands evolve.
ESPN Stats: Traditional & Advanced Numbers
Major league outlets like ESPN provide regularly updated stats for Contreras, capturing his performance both per season and across his career.
2025 Season (ESPN Metrics)
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Games Played: 135
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AVG: .257
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HR: 20
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RBI: 80
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OPS: .791
These numbers show Contreras remains a productive player, especially with a strong run production profile and the ability to contribute power from the right side.
Career Overview
Across his MLB tenure, Contreras has compiled:
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Over 170 career home runs
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550+ career RBIs
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.250+ career batting average
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.810+ career OPS
These stats place him among the more consistent offensive contributors at his position over the last decade.
Contract Breakdown: Value and Longevity
Willson Contreras’s five-year deal with the Cardinals was a significant commitment:
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Total Value: $87.5 million
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Years: 2023–2027
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Club Option: 2028
This pact reflects how teams view Contreras — not just for his bat but for his leadership, veteran presence, and flexibility. It’s worth noting that this contract came with expectations: that Contreras would remain productive through his early-to-mid 30s, a period when many catchers begin to decline.
Modern front offices increasingly use analytics to gauge player value beyond traditional stats. In Contreras’s case, his contract value has been buoyed by his offensive output, adaptability at multiple positions, and clubhouse presence.
Career Highlights & Awards
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Three× MLB All-Star
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Consistent offensive production
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High-impact power numbers
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Leadership roles on multiple clubs
Contreras also brings a strong intangible element — veteran toughness, playoff experience, and international pedigree. His contributions off the field and mentorship for younger players can’t be overstated, adding value beyond the box scores.
Trade Speculation & Recent Moves
Heading into the 2025-26 offseason, Contreras has been connected to a number of trade rumors — most notably a move to the Boston Red Sox, who acquired him from the Cardinals in December 2025.
This trade — involving several pitching prospects going back to St. Louis — illustrates how competitive teams value proven MLB hitters, especially those who can slot into everyday lineups and provide veteran leadership.
Even with age and positional changes in play, Contreras remains a sought-after commodity around the league.
FAQ: Willson Contreras
1. How old is Willson Contreras?
Willson Contreras was born on May 13, 1992, making him 33 years old as of the 2025 MLB season.
2. What position does Willson Contreras play?
Contreras spent the majority of his career as a catcher but transitioned to primarily playing first base in 2025.
3. What are his 2025 season stats?
In the 2025 season, Contreras hit .257 with 20 home runs, 80 RBIs, and an OPS of .791.
4. What is Willson Contreras’s contract?
Contreras signed a five-year, $87.5 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals that runs through 2027 and includes a club option for 2028.
5. Has Contreras been traded recently?
Yes — in December 2025, the Boston Red Sox acquired Willson Contreras from the Cardinals in a multi-player deal.
6. What are his career highlights?
Contreras is a three-time MLB All-Star with strong offensive production and a reputation for leadership and versatility.
7. Is he still effective as a hitter?
Yes — even at age 33, Contreras continues to contribute offensively with power and strong run production metrics, backed by both traditional stats and analytical measures.
Conclusion
Willson Contreras stands as one of baseball’s most impactful players of the last decade — a durable bat, savvy defender, and trusted veteran. From his rise with the Cubs to his new role with the Red Sox, and supported by contract value and advanced analytics, Contreras’s journey offers lessons in adaptation, consistency, and leadership. Keep an eye on him — whether at the plate, in the field, or shaping his legacy on MLB rosters for years to come.
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