Back to the Chicago Cubs Newsfeed

Willson Contreras Riding Better Prep, Greater Launch Angle to Bigger Numbers

Ever since he debuted with a home run on his first swing, Willson Contreras has looked like the long-term answer at catcher. He posted a wRC+ between 122-126 during his first two full seasons and through the first half of last year before it plummeted to 62 down the stretch. More than some sort of fluke, he simply bonked after failing to keep up with his physical preparation as the season wore on.

His soft contact percentage increased to above average, his exit velocity decreased to below average, and his launch angle dropped precipitously during August and September.