Molina Secures His Legacy in St. Louis

 
THE CARDINAL CHRONICLE
St. Louis, MO
By Ray Mileur

This Date in Cardinal History: Molina Secures His Legacy in St. Louis

In 2012, fresh off a World Series championship, the St. Louis Cardinals ensured their leader behind the plate wasn’t going anywhere.

Yadier Molina signed a five-year, $75 million contract extension that would keep him in St. Louis through the 2017 season, with a mutual $15 million option for an additional year. At the time, it was the richest contract ever given to a catcher over age 30 — and worth every penny.

Molina wasn’t just a Gold Glove catcher. He was the backbone of the pitching staff, the field general, and the emotional thermostat of the club. His ability to control the running game, frame pitches, manage veterans, and shepherd young arms made him indispensable.

This wasn’t a deal based on projections. It was based on trust.

By 2012, Molina had already earned multiple Gold Gloves, helped guide the Cardinals to two pennants and a World Series title, and established himself as the standard at his position. His postseason résumé spoke for itself. His presence in the clubhouse spoke even louder.

The extension sent a message: The Cardinals would continue to build around pitching, defense, and leadership up the middle. Molina embodied all three.

Contracts come and go. Core players define eras.

And in 2012, the Cardinals made sure their era and his career would continue with No. 4 behind the plate

Photo Credit / The Sporting News

The Cardinal Chronicle
Preserving the Past, Promoting the Present, and Projecting the Future.