St. Louis Cardinals Hopes for the Offseason: Yadier Molina

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My main hope for Yadier Molina is health. Good. Health.

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After this season that included a lengthy stay on the disabled list for Yadi due to a thumb injury … and then seeing him struggle through the season after he came back … and getting hurt during the National League Championship Series … well, Yadier Molina is needed and he needs to be healthy.

Molina is signed through the 2017 season with an option for the 2018 season. We have a few more seasons with the future Hall of Famer. So, health is really important for a catcher with that big a commitment.

So what are my hopes for Yadi’s offseason?

* A bubble. I kid, but like I mentioned above. Yadi. Healthy. Important. That said, I hope he rested some while getting  in some good cardio, yoga and strength training.

* That his annual tattoo addition isn’t too much. Every year he gets a pretty great tattoo addition. It’s usually pretty visible. And I’m getting concerned. Where exactly will it go this time? Everything visible is pretty covered up. This year could see another neck tat or … goodness… dare he get a face tat? I know Yadi’s tats have some magic … but, let’s hope it’s not too much this time! His face as is would be great.

* That he is okay with getting some time in at another position. It might be time to get him to transition to a position that is a little easier on the knees. He is an amazing catcher. He is needed on the field. And in the line-up. Getting some work elsewhere in the field may help his long term durability. I absolutely want most of his time behind the plate. But if he would be a better option in the line up at first base or third base, it must be considered.

* Be Carlos Martinez‘s buddy. He’s going to need a solid, brotherly influence this season. Carlos obviously listens to Yadi. Remember when Yadi got in Carlos’s face to get himself in check? Only Yadi. Carlos’s emotions will be high this season as he is planning on dedicating this season to his fallen friend, Oscar Taveras. He is going to need Yadi’s mentorship on and off the field. He will step up.

* More hits. More homers. More. Yadi is a great hitter. Maybe even do some base stealing this season if you’re feeling salty. Go for it Yadi! Be the step up leader the team needs from you. …

But please.

Stay healthy!