Yadier Molina on Cardinals’ Future: “We’re Close — Now Let’s Get It Done”
ST. LOUIS — Legendary catcher Yadier Molina, back in the St. Louis Cardinals dugout for a brief coaching stint, spoke openly this week about the team’s current state and what must change for the organization to return to championship contention.
“We’ve Got the Talent, Now Let’s Execute”
Molina said he believes the Cardinals have the right mix of players but emphasized the need for better execution and stability.
“We are in a position we don’t like right now. Obviously, we have to play better baseball, but I think we’re there. We’ve got the talent,” Molina said.
He praised the team’s aggressive base running and situational play but pointed out areas that still need improvement.
“We play the small game really good. We’re running the bases really good,” he said. “The pitchers need to be more stable. You’ve got to go game by game.”
Vision for the Cardinals’ Next Phase
Molina, who spent his entire 19-year career in St. Louis, outlined what he believes must happen for the team to rise again:
- Consistency and Culture: He stressed the need for daily discipline and structure — the kind of leadership he once brought behind the plate.
- Pitching Stability: Molina identified pitching as the team’s biggest weakness and the key to improving results.
- Developing Young Talent: The former catcher expressed his desire to mentor the team’s younger players, particularly pitchers and catchers.
- Patience and Progress: He emphasized a “game-by-game” approach, warning against expecting quick fixes.
Why Molina’s Words Carry Weight
As a two-time World Series champion and one of the most respected figures in Cardinals history, Molina’s perspective resonates deeply within the organization. Since his retirement, the team has struggled to find consistent success, missing the postseason in consecutive years.
Molina’s return to the dugout — even temporarily — has sparked speculation about a larger role within the franchise. Reports suggest the Cardinals and Molina have discussed potential future coaching or managerial opportunities, though nothing has been confirmed.
What to Watch
- Whether Molina officially joins the Cardinals’ coaching staff in a full-time capacity.
- How the organization addresses pitching depth and consistency heading into next season.
- Whether Molina’s involvement signals a renewed focus on fundamentals and veteran leadership.
A Measured Challenge
Molina’s message to the team and its fans was both hopeful and direct: the Cardinals are close, but success will require steadiness and accountability.
“We’ve got what it takes,” he said. “Now it’s about putting it all together.”
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