Cardinals Plan Ivan Herrera Catcher Return 2026 Season

The St. Louis Cardinals are committed to having Iván Herrera return to catching in the 2026 season despite his defensive struggles and injuries during 2025. Herrera, who has been one of the team's best hitters with a .280 average and .816 OPS, underwent a throwing program in the offseason but still struggled to control the running game, leading to his removal from catching duties midseason. Manager Oliver Marmol and president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom have emphasized Herrera's offseason focus on improving arm strength and game-calling skills, with the expectation that he will compete for a catching role in Spring Training. Herrera's preparation will be exclusive to catching this offseason, foregoing winter league play, while the Cardinals' catching coordinator will closely support his development. Despite concerns about injury risk and previous physical setbacks, the team believes Herrera's offensive contributions and commitment justify the decision to reinstate him as a catcher. The Cardinals aim to balance maximizing Herrera's health and offensive output with his defensive responsibilities behind the plate in 2026.