Atlanta Braves have always been considered a team with good catching quality. Back in the nineties, Javy López was in charge of receiving the four-armed pitches that today rest in the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, such as Greg Maddux, Ton Glavine and John Smoltz.
Also there was Eduardo Pérez, who was proclaimed MVP in a Championship Series in 1999. Then came Brian McCann who played for the Georgia team for 10 years.
Now the new litter has arrived and although Travis d’Arnaud is injured, William Contreras is the one who has focused on maturing from catching, in order to screw in the position and be the regular mask of Atlanta in the coming years.
His presence in the Braves’ lineup has been a real surprise, as in his first 100 chances at the plate this season he has hit 24 hits with six home runs and 20 RBIs. Making it clear that his battle is just beginning and he cannot lower his guard in this race, despite the good time with the wood that he is living.
“I feel focused. I cannot say that I am calm because I am earning a position and I continue fighting for it. I just have to reach out and leave it in the hands of God, “Contreras told El Extrabase.
And it is that with the maturity with which Contreras has played this season is what has helped him to success and not only with the bat. But also with his pet, helping the “Tomahawks” pitchers.
“It has been a very strong process and I cannot say that it is easy. It is a matter of maturity, experience and playing. You have to be patient. As everyone knows, I am a young catcher and I don’t feel bad about it and I’m happy to be here, ”said the Creole.
A good counselor
Fortunately for the youngest of the Contreras, William has a very classy counselor. His brother Willson, who since 2016 has established himself as the main mask of the Chicago Cubs.
“My brother and I are very special. We always keep in touch and when I need advice, I call him. He is my example to follow ”, concluded the Braves mask.
