Willson Conteras Remembering His First MLB At-Bat With Cubs Will Bring Chicago Fans Back to Better Days

As the MLB's future sits in the balance, it may be best to look toward the past for some positive memories instead. That reigns especially true for Cubs fans who are yet to rekindle the glory of their 2016 World Series run.

A key part of that championship season was rookie Willson Contreras. While the catcher may be a familiar face today, his first at-bat in the majors came four years ago on June 19, a clear sign of the successful career that has followed.

Contreras charts a long history with the Cubs all the way back to 2009, when he was signed as an international free agent. For seven years, Contreras rose through the ranks in the minors and became a top prospect heading into the 2016 season.

That year, Contreras received a call-up to the majors, with his first at-bat on June 19. After a pair of pick-off attempts, Contreras rocketed a two-run homer on the first pitch his way, immediately cementing his name in the minds of Cubs fans.

The rest is history as the slugger earned a World Series championship that year and developed into an All-Star the past two seasons. It all started with that first home run, which Contreras looks back fondly on today.

While we can only hope Contreras get back to action soon, memories like these are what will hold us over in the meantime.