Yadier Molina reportedly did not want to negotiate a contract extension during the season. It looks as though there will be no need for that.
Molina was potentially headed towards free agency after this season, although there is a mutual option in his contract for the 2018 season at $15 million with a $2 million buyout. Despite being 34 years old, Molina is still among the best all-around catchers in the game and will continue to be paid like it, according to FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal.
Sources: Molina, #STLCards finalizing extension. Deal expected to be three years, more than $55M.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) March 31, 2017
Sources: Molina three-year extension with #STLCards will be between $55M and $65M.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) March 31, 2017
Molina at numbers just reported will be highest-paid catcher by average annual value. Current high: #SFGiants’ Posey at $18.5M per year.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) March 31, 2017
The Cardinals are the only major league team Molina has played for since making his debut in 2004. This reported extension would all but guarantee St. Louis would be the only team he suits up for over his outstanding career.
Molina has been an All-Star seven times, won two World Series rings, and taken home eight Gold Glove Awards as well as four Platinum Glove Awards. Not only is he the heart and soul of the Cardinals, Molina was also the emotional leader of the Puerto Rican team that advanced to the final of this year’s World Baseball Classic.
