Yadier Molina Says He'd Rather Retire Than Play for Team Other Than Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals are paying Yadier Molina $20 million in 2020 in what is the final year of his current contract.
The nine-time All-Star debuted with the Cardinals in 2004 and has spent his entire career with the organization. He was won two World Series titles during his tenure and recently made it clear he has no desire to ever play elsewhere.
“If the Cardinals want me that’s the only team I want to play for.” - Yadier Molina #STLCards pic.twitter.com/Tht3TnQTXK
— Corey Miller (@corey_miller5) January 20, 2020
That is a strong statement from the 37-year-old. Regardless of the offers he could get in free agency, Cards fans can take solace in the fact Molina is committed to remaining in St. Louis.
Yadier Molina's contract is up after this season, he says if the #STLCards want to extend him than he'll keep playing for "probably 2 more years."
— KMOXSports (@KMOXSports) January 20, 2020
More from Yadi with @Ackerman1120 here: https://t.co/freIGbjo8T#CardsWarmUp pic.twitter.com/nEFd5tTGT1
Molina is in the twilight of his career and has made over $130 million in salary alone. The Cardinals can offer him a lower salary starting in 2021 if he has no desire to leave.
The Cardinals legend accepting less money would help the team chase another World Series while keeping Molina on the roster to work with the pitching staff.
That type of team-friendly deal is invaluable and there is no reason not to keep Molina around if he wants to stay and isn't too worried about his salary. Those negotiations, however, have yet to take focus as the Cardinals focus on 2020.