TRACK RECORD: The younger brother of Cubs catcher Willson Contreras, William impressed in the South Atlantic League as a 20-year-old in 2018 before advancing to Double-A Mississippi in 2019. His improved defensive focus allowed the Braves to feel comfortable calling him up for his major league debut in July after both Travis d’Arnaud and Tyler Flowers showed coronavirus symptoms.
SCOUTING REPORT: Contreras is a solid athlete for a catcher, has a strong throwing arm and shows plus raw power at the plate. He previously struggled with consistency and focus as a defender, but he made massive strides in 2020 spring training and throughout the year. He worked hard to improve his defense with catching coordinator J.D. Closser to the point where some now believe he could become a plus defender. He moves well behind the plate and has improved as both a receiver and blocker. At the plate, Contreras has the raw power to homer to all fields, but most of his in-game power has gone to his pull side. He has a tendency to chase at times, but generally puts together quality at-bats with a good two-strike approach.
THE FUTURE: Contreras may be ready for an expanded major league role in 2021. He has a chance to become an everyday catcher as long as his defensive improvements hold.
