The St. Louis Cardinals are planning significant roster changes for the offseason, including repositioning their veteran All-Star catcher. President of baseball operations John Mozeliak told MLB.com’s John Denton that Willson Contreras will no longer play as a catcher. Instead, Contreras will shift to first base and designated hitter roles.
Despite the transition, Contreras expressed a desire to remain with the team, even as they undergo a strategic rebuild focused on younger talent. The Cardinals are assessing which veterans on long-term contracts wish to stay or would prefer a trade. Contreras, who is currently under a five-year, $87.5 million contract with an option for a sixth year, remains committed to the team.
The Cardinals are also working to cut payroll, having already saved $55 million by letting Paul Goldschmidt enter free agency and declining club options on pitchers like Lance Lynn, Kyle Gibson, and Keynan Middleton. However, the organization seems prepared to keep Contreras’ contract despite its size.
One of the key reasons for Contreras’ position change is his injury history. He missed significant time in 2024 due to various health issues, prompting the Cardinals’ medical team to recommend a move to less physically demanding positions to extend his career. Mozeliak highlighted that catching is rigorous and pointed out that Contreras’ injuries, including one from being hit by a pitch, contributed to this decision.
Willson Contreras
This shift opens up opportunities for young catchers Ivan Herrera and Pedro Pages, who gained experience in 2024 during Contreras’ absence. Herrera performed well offensively, hitting .301 with five home runs, while Pages was a stronger defensive presence. Both will share catching duties in 2025, with a rotation likely based on form and pitcher compatibility. Additionally, prospect Jimmy Crooks, who had an impressive season in Double-A, may soon contend for a major league role.
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