Nine-time All-Star catcher Yadier Molina would like to continue playing in 2021, but after a few months in free agency, the 38-year-old doesn't seem to believe he has to continue if the right opportunity doesn't present itself.
Without certainty on where he'll play this upcoming season, Molina said in a recent interview that he is preparing like he'll play an 18th big league season. But, in a new development, walking away if he isn't able to return on his terms appears to be an option.
"Getting ready as always and God will tell," Molina told Cardinals Spanish broadcaster Polo Ascensio, as translated by Derrick Goold of The St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "If God wants me to come back, then I’ll come back. And if not I will retire happy with my head held high."
After 17 seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, Molina, one of the greatest defensive catchers ever, has reached free agency for the first time. Jon Heyman of RADIO.COM Sports reported at the outset of the offseason that Molina was seeking a two-year deal, and his older brother Bengie, a former major league catcher, said on KMOX that he hoped to return to the Cardinals. To this point, though, a deal hasn't been reached, with Mark Saxson reporting last month that Molina's team "balked" at what they viewed to be a "ridiculous" offer from Molina's long-time employer.
Molina did tell Laura A. Bonnelly V. of Mas Que Pelota in December that he's received interest from four other teams outside of the Cardinals, the New York Yankees and Mets, San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Angels. The Mets are almost certainly off the table after signing James McCann, but other suitors, like the Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals, could still emerge as other options dry up. After all, Molina told ESPN's Marly Rivera last April that he would consider playing for another team if it allowed him to extend his career. Still, it's one thing to say that, it's another thing to actually depart St. Louis. (Also, teams other than the Cardinals have a lot less reason to guarantee Molina a second year in a deal.)
The feeling your left with is hinting at retirement is a way for Molina to stir up a sense of urgency from the Cardinals, and to a lesser extent, other suitors. Unfortunately, this offseason has moved at a snail's pace, so even if Molina ultimately lives happily ever after in St. Louis, it may take a few more weeks to come to a resolution.
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