When Willson Contreras returns, the Cubs will have three viable catching options with Jonathan Lucroy and Victor Caratini still around. That can protect Contreras from being over-eager, but will also challenge Maddon to get all three on the field.
“I will look to (figure) that out and utilize them in the best possible way,” Maddon said. “But we know that Willson is a force. We know what he looked like before this all occurred and what he’s probably going to look like when he comes back.”
Time is starting to run out for Contreras to go on a minor-league rehab assignment to restore his timing. However, one possibility could be Class AAA Iowa, which is on track for the Pacific Coast League playoffs and will play an extended season.
Contreras did work on the field before Saturday’s game. Maddon said Contreras told him he’s “feeling great” but has done limited hitting as he recovers.
Javy woes
Javy Baez entered Saturday in a bit of a lull, hitting .208 with a .283 slugging percentage over his last 15 games. Maddon thinks he knows why Baez has dipped somewhat recently.
“I think, more than anything, the guy could definitely use a rest,” Maddon said. “He and I have got to make sure that we stay on top of that.”
Baez got some extra rest Friday when he was pulled before the top of the sixth. The Cubs are also off Monday, which will also provide a needed breather.
“I think at the plate, more than anything, he’s just off a little bit,” Maddon said. “It’s just not getting to the barrel as often. It will.”
While fatigue might be affecting Baez’s production, it isn’t doing anything to his hustle or his glove.
“He hit some weak ground balls but he ran hard to first base and I really appreciated that,” Baez said. “His defense has been outstanding (despite) all of that.
Davey on Joe
Maddon and Nationals manager Dave Martinez go way back. They worked together with the Rays and of course with the Cubs, before Martinez was hired to manage Washington in October of 2017.
Maddon’s contract is up at the end of the season, and barring an extension will be either a lame-duck or free agent, depending on your point of view. Martinez’s opinion of Maddon’s situation is unambiguous.
”Speaking personally, knowing Joe, I love him,” Martinez said. “I think he’s the best. So why wouldn’t you want the best back?”
Hands off
Ben Zobrist was scheduled to play Saturday for Iowa, with his next steps undetermined. Maddon is keeping out of the planning.
“I don’t even know. I mean that sincerely,” Maddon said. “I have totally stayed out of that. So when the boys say he’s ready, he’s ready.”
