St. Louis Cardinals Shift Willson Contreras to First Base and Designated Hitter
In a move designed to extend the playing career of Willson Contreras, the St. Louis Cardinals have announced that Contreras will be transitioning from his primary role as a catcher to duties primarily at first base and as a designated hitter. This strategic shift comes during the early stages of his five-year, $87 million contract with the team.
The decision to reposition Contreras was initially communicated in May when the Cardinals stated their intent to relieve him of his catching responsibilities. Initially arriving to fill the considerable void left by the retirement of legendary Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina at the conclusion of the 2022 season, Contreras has found the subsequent expectations and responsibilities lofty and challenging.
During the past season, Contreras started 51 of his 84 appearances as the Cardinals’ catcher. His prowess at framing pitches left room for improvement, despite his commendable ability as a blocker and possessing an above-average throwing arm. These defensive assessments, combined with ongoing injuries, might have contributed to this notable position shift.
Contreras, known for his robust offensive capabilities, maintained a .262 batting average alongside a strong .380 on-base percentage and a .468 slugging percentage. Over 358 plate appearances, he contributed 17 doubles and launched 15 home runs, ultimately achieving a WAR (Wins Above Replacement) of 2.9 in his 84 games played throughout the season. These statistics underscore his potential as a significant offensive asset when injury-free and not bogged down by the intense demands of a catcher’s role.
The move to reposition Contreras also coincides with free agent Paul Goldschmidt's departure from the team, leaving a gap at first base that Contreras's transition is keen to fill. By making room for Contreras at first base and as a designated hitter, the Cardinals are strategically utilizing his offensive talents while aiming to reduce his physical strain.
Speakers for the Cardinals’ management, including John Mozeliak, emphasized a broader trend in Major League Baseball prioritizing player longevity and wellness, which is reflected in this decision to reallocate Contreras’s responsibilities. As Mozeliak noted, “The goal of keeping Contreras healthy and lengthening his career” remains at the forefront of this strategic evolution within the team.
In the wake of Contreras's departure from full-time catching duties, prospects Iván Herrera and Pedro Pagés are poised to share the position, taking on the critical task of catching for a pitching staff in transition. The Cardinals are hopeful that these younger players will bring dynamic energy and new potential behind the plate, thus reinforcing the team’s defensive and game-calling strengths.
This reshuffle illuminates a nuanced strategy, considering both player well-being and the Cardinals' ambitions for consistent competitiveness. With Contreras expected to anchor his new roles as effectively as he previously embraced his catcher’s gear, the Cardinals strive for striking a balance between veteran wisdom and youthful exuberance as they look to the forthcoming season.