ST. LOUIS — Cardinals fans will get at least one more year of Yadier Molina wearing the birds on the bat.
The Athletic's Katie Woo and others first reported Tuesday that Molina had agreed to a one-year, $10 million contract extension for 2022. The team confirmed the news later on Tuesday but did not announce specific financial details.
“On behalf of the Cardinals and our fans, it gives me great pleasure to announce that Yadier Molina will continue his franchise legacy for another season in 2022,” stated Cardinals Chairman Bill DeWitt, Jr. “Yadi has continued to play at an All-Star level this season, and has already established himself among the greatest players to have ever worn the birds on the bat.”
“We are pleased to announce that Yadi has agreed to cement his career legacy with the Cardinals for a final season in 2022,” said Cardinals’ President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak. “His experience, leadership, work ethic and winning desire are all part of what we value as an organization.”
Molina, 39, is currently in his 18th season with the Cardinals. In 2021, he's hitting .259 with a .681 OPS, 8 home runs and 51 RBI in 94 games played. He was also named to his 10th All-Star team.
Molina's 18 years with the Cardinals is second only to Stan Musial's 22 seasons.
Molina re-signed with the Cardinals ahead of the 2021 season also on a one-year deal for $9 million.
The future Hall of Famer is a two-time World Series champion, 9-time Gold Glove winner, 4-time Platinum Glove winner and won a silver slugger at catcher.