The St. Louis Cardinals recently announced a significant addition to their front office by naming Yadier Molina, a distinguished former catcher and franchise icon, as a special assistant to John Mozeliak, the president of baseball operations. This appointment marks a new chapter for Molina, who has been synonymous with the Cardinals throughout his remarkable career.
Molina’s tenure with the Cardinals is nothing short of legendary. Over 19 Major League seasons, all with St. Louis, he appeared in 2,224 games, setting a record for the most games played behind the plate by a catcher for a single team. His illustrious career includes nine Rawlings Gold Glove awards, four Platinum Glove awards, and ten selections as a National League All-Star. Notably, Molina and teammate Adam Wainwright hold the Major League record for 328 starts as a battery duo.
Molina was instrumental in leading the Cardinals to four World Series appearances (2004, 2006, 2011, 2013), clinching the championship in 2006 and 2011. He holds the franchise record for the most postseason games played (104) and hits (102). During his playing career, which began on June 3, 2004, the Cardinals were rarely out of postseason contention, being eliminated in only 24 of the 2,921 games played.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Molina’s contributions extend to his community involvement. He was the recipient of the 2018 Roberto Clemente Award, the highest honor in Major League Baseball for community service. Additionally, he was honored by his teammates with the 2015 Darryl Kile Award. After retiring following the 2022 season, Molina also gained managerial experience, leading the Puerto Rican team in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and managing Navegantes del Magallanes in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League in 2022.
Drafted by the Cardinals in the fourth round of the 2000 MLB Draft from Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Molina’s return to the Cardinals in a leadership role is a testament to his enduring legacy and the respect he commands within the organization. In his new position, he will provide invaluable insights and guidance both at the major league level and within the minor league system, leveraging his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game.
