MLB Rumors: Chicago Cubs "Showing Strong Interest" In Free Agent Catcher

The Chicago Cubs have had a No. 1 catcher in Willson Contreras for the past seven years. As he moves into free agency, however, the Cubbies are eyeing a replacement that doesn't quite fit the Contreras mold. 

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Cubs are "showing strong interest" in former Boston Red Sox catcher Christian Vazquez as a potential new backstop. Vazquez is known much more for his defense and game-calling than his bat—quite the opposite of Contreras. 

And a deeper dive into the potential pairing shows the Cubs just may have even more of a reason for trying to land Vazquez. 

If the Cubs were to sign Christian Vazquez, that'd be an interesting variable as they chase Xander Bogaerts.

Chance to reunite with one of his best friends. Along with David Ross being the manager and Mike Napoli as 1B coach. Obvious Red Sox connections with Jed Hoyer as well. https://t.co/QOEgjbck6D

— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) December 1, 2022

The Cubs are also attempting to bring in Red Sox all-star shortstop Xander Bogaerts. He and Vazquez were friends and teammates in Boston for nine years. 

In addition, Mike Napoli, now the first base coach with the Cubs, was teammates for a couple of years with both Vazquez and Bogey in Boston (including a 2013 World Series win with Bogaerts). And what makes this even more intriguing, is that Cubs manager David Ross was one of the leaders of that '13 championship team, and was a teammate and mentor behind the plate for Vazquez in 2014 as well. 

Could be something brewing in the Windy City on these fronts. Something to keep an eye on during the coming week's Winter Meetings. 

PIhoto: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports