MLB.com's Matthew Leach reports that Cardinals GM John Mozeliak said he expects to exercise Yadier Molina's $7MM club option tomorrow. B.J. Rains of FOXSportsMidwest.com echoed the statement and took it one step further, stating that Mozeliak has confirmed the option will be picked up (Twitter link).
There was never any doubt as to whether or not Molina would be back in 2012. The 28-year-old Puerto Rico native is well-renowned for his prowess behind the plate, but he also turned in the finest offensive season of his career in 2011. Molina battted .305/.349/.465 and swatted a career-high 14 homers in 518 plate appearances for the World Champion Cardinals.
Molina signed a four-year, $15.5MM deal in lieu of arbitration back in January of 2008. This option year pushes the total value of his contract to $21.75MM over five years.
This guy is so valuable. I can’t remember seeing anyone throw behind runners with such accuracy and strength as Molina; not to mention all of the other great things he brings to the game. Obviously, a no doubter on this option.
Two words for ya: Ivan Rodriguez.
But, yeah, Yadi seemed to get the best package of all the Molina qualities
Well, I was a bit young when I-Rod was in his prime so it’s hard to recall how good he really was. I mean the numbers will always be there, but I can’t pull up memories of watching him play for the most part. Sadly, most of what I remember about I-Rod are the mediocre years that have made up the back end of his career.
DOESNT BEGIN TO COMPARE TO MOLINA ANYDAY OF THE WEEK.
Dude I will say this about I-Rod, if you didn’t get to see him in his prime you might have missed the most complete catcher of all time. Think of Yadier Molina with more offense. Pudge had the defense, the arm, calling a good game, and hit for avg and power. unfortunately catchers break down before any other position. Yadier may be the most complete catcher in todays game.
Kinda no brainer. If you factor in his defense then he’s at least a top 3 catcher in baseball.
Can’t freakin’ believe this guy has only been an all-star, what, three times?!?!?!?!?
top 25 player in baseball according to Heyman.
im not trying to dog Yadi though. Love him. no brainer move by the cards. he’ll be a lifelong Cardinal
Hey man!
I am a Pirate fan but love Yadi. IMO he is THE best catcher in baseball. Just bought my Yadier Molina WS bobblehead!
I’m not a big Yadi fan, but this was obviously a no-brainer.
I think the only question with this one is if he gets a long term contract instead
what a bargain
7MM for the best player at the most difficult position to find good talent at is an absolute steal for the Cardinals.
(still hate you Yadi)
I laugh at your misery. Sorry.
yadi has established himself as somewhat of an offensive force as well, not a bad deal if i say so myself
the only worry with Yadi is if/when he starts breaking down. see the beatings he took in the playoffs? and he plays, like what, all 162 games?!
La Russa has recognized the heavy workload and gave him more time off this year (although that was probably nullified by starting in 18 playoff games, but the WS Title is worth it).
He is eaisily the best Catcher in the ML right now. I just hope Alex Avila takes over that pos. Next year.