Joe Maddon has shaken up some things already in the first World Series game the Chicago Cubs have played in since 1945. A week ago, no one would have had Kyle Schwarber starting as designated hitter, and Chris Coghlan in right field in game one – but that isn’t the only surprise up Joe’s sleeve.
Maddon admitted Cubs may utilize Contreras over Montero tomorrow to catch Arrieta based on Indians aggressive running game.
— Tony Andracki (@TonyAndracki23) October 25, 2016
That is right, Willson Contreras looks to get a start over Miguel Montero in game two.
This is surprising since Miggy has essentially been Jake Arrieta’s personal catcher since Willy has joined to team. In fact Jake was rather upset when Miggy was pulled in his last regular season start in favor of Contreras.
Jake had a point to be upset, this season he has a 5.18 ERA in 33 innings with Willson as his catcher, while he has a 3.03 ERA with Montero as his backstop. This opens the question, is it a mistake to pair Contreras with Arrieta?
It shouldn’t be, the Indians are more aggressive on the basepaths, swiping 143 bases on the season – led by the left fielder Rajai Davis’ 43. Miggy, as much as I love the guy and his attitude, has thrown out 11% 9f the potential base stealers (worst mark of his career), whereas Contreras has successfully gunned down 37% of would be runners.
There is also a bit of offense you gain. Miguel has hit a lot better off late, I mean who doesn’t remember his NLCS grand slam? But Contreras has provided more consistent offense throughout the season and playoffs. This move does bring up the question…
Why is Miguel on the World Series roster if he doesn’t catch Arrieta?
That I just don’t have an answer for. Maybe as a left-handed bat off the bench? I wouldn’t guess Maddon would turn to Jason Heyward in a pinch hit scenario, and Chris Coghlan might continue to get starts. With a very good Andrew Miller (has yet to give up a run in three years of playoff baseball) looming out of the pen – wouldn’t the Cubs turned to the right-handed bats off the bench?
Sometimes Joe Maddon can have a mad scientist like approach to things, and this just might be another example of that. With seven games to win four, Miggy still provides some thump from the left side – even if he doesn’t bring too much value behind the plate. With the Cubs technically carrying four catchers (I know, Schwarber will not suit up) I still wouldn’t be surprised if each of them have a huge impact on the World Series.
