What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The St. Louis Cardinals have announced plans for Ivan Herrera to return to his role as catcher in the 2026 season. Herrera, who has been one of the most offensively productive catchers in the majors, faced challenges with opposing baserunners successfully stealing bases against him. Despite these struggles, the Cardinals are committed to keeping Herrera behind the plate to maintain his offensive contributions. The team has relied on other catchers like Pedro Pagés, Yohel Pozo, and Jimmy Crooks during Herrera's absence, but they see his return as crucial for the upcoming season.
Why It's Important?
Herrera's return as catcher is significant for the Cardinals as they aim to strengthen their defensive lineup while maintaining offensive productivity. His ability to contribute offensively is a valuable asset, and the team's decision to reinstate him as catcher reflects their confidence in his potential to improve defensively. This move could impact the Cardinals' performance in the 2026 season, influencing their strategy and roster decisions. It also highlights the challenges teams face in balancing offensive and defensive capabilities in key positions.
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