While St. Louis Cardinals fans rejoice, Chicago Cubs fans are not exactly feeling the same happiness.
On Wednesday, Willson Contreras, the team’s star catcher who was a key factor in their 2016 World Series title run and a three-time All-Star, found a new home, signing with the Cardinals on a five-year, $87.5 million deal.
Contreras was not expected to remain in Chicago this offseason, but his departure hurts even worse for Cubs fans now that he has joined their arch-rivals.
On Twitter, a Cubs fan bid farewell to the team’s longtime backstop, wishing him the best in St. Louis and letting him know how much he was appreciated in Chicago.
Thank you for everything, Willson Contreras. 14 years as a Chicago Cub. Words cannot express how much Cubs fans appreciate you. You’re a Champion & Cub for life. Wishing you nothing but the best in the next chapter of your career. We will miss you. WC40 forever 🥹❤️ pic.twitter.com/S4tbRgDq6K
— Cubs Zone ™️ (@CubsZone) December 7, 2022
Cubs Fans Bid Farewell To Contreras
Contreras will always be loved in Chicago.
After all, he helped transform the team from lovable losers into a juggernaut.
The Cubs won three NL Central titles and reached the postseason in four out of the seven seasons the 30-year-old was with the team.
The veteran catcher hit just .243 in the regular season, but still managed to crush 22 home runs.
But Contreras was a fan favorite in Chicago.
The 2016 team captured the hearts of nearly the entire city.
They accomplished something that a Cubs team had not done since 1908, and Contreras was a huge part of the team’s success.
So even after signing with the Cardinals, Cubs fans will always appreciate Contreras for what he was able to do during his time in Chicago.
His competitive fire and spirit will always be remembered.
When he returns to Wrigley Field, you can bet that Cubs fans will give him a nice standing ovation.
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