Is William Contreras related to Willson Contreras? It’s a question that comes up frequently among baseball fans in the United States, especially during the 2025 MLB season, where both brothers continue to play starring roles for their respective teams. The answer is clear: yes, they are brothers — and their journey from the streets of Venezuela to Major League Baseball is one of the most inspiring sibling success stories in modern sports.
Their story isn’t just about bloodlines; it’s about shared passion, hard work, and a bond that continues to captivate MLB audiences year after year. As both William and Willson excel at the highest level, their relationship as brothers adds a special dimension to every game they play.
The Contreras Brothers: From Venezuela to the MLB Spotlight
William and Willson Contreras grew up in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela, in a family that valued baseball deeply. Their father, William Sr., and mother, Olga, played an essential role in nurturing their love for the game. The brothers spent countless hours practicing together, competing with each other, and dreaming about one day playing in the United States.
Willson, the older brother by six years, blazed the trail first. He signed with the Chicago Cubs in 2009 as an international free agent. After years in the minor leagues, his big break came in 2016. In one of the most memorable debuts in recent memory, Willson homered on the first pitch he saw at Wrigley Field, instantly becoming a fan favorite. That season, he became a crucial part of the Cubs team that ended a 108-year World Series drought.
William followed in his brother’s footsteps. In 2015, he signed with the Atlanta Braves as a teenager and spent years refining his game in the minor leagues. His MLB debut came in 2020, and he quickly made an impression with his offensive power. By 2022, William had earned his first All-Star selection. Later, a trade to the Milwaukee Brewers positioned him as the centerpiece of their lineup — and he’s only gotten better since then.
Both Brothers Behind the Plate
It’s rare enough for two brothers to both make it to the majors. It’s even rarer when both excel at the same position: catcher.
- Willson Contreras
- Age: 33
- Position: Catcher
- Current Team: St. Louis Cardinals
- MLB Debut: 2016
- Career Highlights: 3× All-Star, 2016 World Series Champion, known for his leadership, strong arm, and clutch hitting.
- William Contreras
- Age: 27
- Position: Catcher
- Current Team: Milwaukee Brewers
- MLB Debut: 2020
- Career Highlights: 2× All-Star, Silver Slugger Award winner, offensive powerhouse, emerging as one of the top catchers in the National League.
Both are known for their hitting ability and improving defensive skills, but their styles differ. Willson is the fiery, vocal leader behind the plate, a veteran presence who commands respect from pitchers and teammates. William, meanwhile, has developed into a modern offensive force — with a smooth swing and the athleticism to control the game behind the plate.
Their simultaneous rise as elite catchers has added an extra layer of intrigue to their story, making them one of MLB’s most talked-about sibling duos.
Their Journey Through Different Paths
While they share the same goal and position, the paths William and Willson took to MLB success were different.
Willson Contreras spent seven years in the Cubs’ minor league system, switching positions early in his career before settling in as a catcher. His breakout came during one of the most memorable years in Cubs history, making him a household name in Chicago. Over the next several seasons, he became known for his intensity, leadership, and ability to perform in clutch moments.
After the 2022 season, he made a bold move by signing with the St. Louis Cardinals, one of the Cubs’ biggest rivals. It shocked fans in Chicago, but it also proved Willson’s confidence and ambition. He embraced his new role in St. Louis, becoming a veteran leader for a roster in transition.
William Contreras, on the other hand, entered a Braves organization already loaded with young talent. Breaking into their lineup wasn’t easy, but his bat forced the issue. He hit for both average and power, quickly becoming one of the best young hitters among catchers. In late 2022, a three-team trade sent him to the Brewers, where he flourished as their starting catcher. His offensive production has steadily improved, and by 2025, he is considered one of the league’s top performers at his position.
Brotherly Rivalry in the National League Central
The Brewers–Cardinals rivalry is one of the most competitive in the National League Central. Now, it has a unique twist: two brothers — William with Milwaukee and Willson with St. Louis — on opposing sides.
Whenever their teams face off, the spotlight shines on the Contreras brothers. Fans love the sight of two elite catchers from the same family calling pitches against each other’s lineups. Their parents are often seen in the stands wearing split jerseys, proudly supporting both sons.
The brothers have admitted that playing against each other feels strange but exciting. Once the first pitch is thrown, the family connection takes a backseat, and the rivalry takes over. Each brother wants to outplay the other, but the respect between them is clear.
All-Star History Together
In 2022, William and Willson Contreras made MLB history when they both appeared in the All-Star Game. Willson started at catcher for the National League, while William served as the designated hitter. This made them the first brothers in nearly two decades to start in the same All-Star lineup.
The sight of both Contreras brothers wearing the same National League uniforms, standing side by side during the player introductions, was a moment fans won’t forget. It was more than just a game — it was a celebration of family, perseverance, and excellence.
Their Impact in the 2025 Season
As of October 2025, both brothers are making major contributions to their respective teams:
- William Contreras has become one of the leading MVP candidates in the National League. He’s hitting for power and average, controlling games behind the plate, and providing leadership for a Brewers team with postseason ambitions. His consistency has made him one of the most valuable players in Milwaukee’s lineup.
- Willson Contreras has battled through injuries earlier this year but returned to form in the second half of the season. He’s embraced his veteran role with the Cardinals, mentoring younger pitchers and stabilizing the lineup. His experience continues to make him a cornerstone of the team’s culture.
Their simultaneous success keeps them in the national conversation and adds depth to their shared narrative.
Why Their Story Captivates Fans
The story of William and Willson Contreras resonates because it embodies values that fans admire — family, perseverance, and passion.
- Family Legacy: Two brothers reaching the pinnacle of professional baseball at the same position is exceptionally rare.
- Cultural Impact: Their journey from Venezuela inspires young athletes worldwide, especially in Latin America.
- Rivalry with Respect: Facing each other in divisional matchups showcases both competition and brotherhood.
- Sustained Excellence: Their ability to remain elite over several seasons shows this is more than a short-lived moment — it’s a lasting legacy.
For many fans, watching the Contreras brothers succeed is about more than stats. It’s a human story that connects generations and cultures.
A Family Bond That Transcends the Game
So, is William Contreras related to Willson Contreras? Yes — they are brothers, rivals on the field, and best friends off it. Their rise from humble beginnings in Venezuela to becoming two of MLB’s premier catchers is nothing short of extraordinary.
Their journeys are different, but their passion for baseball and love for each other are the same. Whether they’re starting side by side in an All-Star Game or facing off in a heated division matchup, their story continues to inspire fans across the country.
What’s your favorite William and Willson Contreras moment? Share your thoughts below and be part of the conversation about this incredible baseball family.