In a surprising turn of events, the St. Louis Cardinals have announced that star catcher Willson Contreras will be making a permanent move to first base starting in the 2025 season. The decision, confirmed by Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak, has sent shockwaves through the baseball world as teams and fans alike grapple with the implications of this major position change.
Protecting Contreras’ Career and Offensive Production
Mozeliak emphasized that the move is designed to safeguard Contreras’ career longevity and enhance his offensive output. “We think that being such a productive hitter, not catching will make him a better hitter,” Mozeliak explained. “How do we protect his career?”
The 32-year-old Contreras, who signed a five-year, $87.5 million contract with the Cardinals through 2027, has spent the vast majority of his nine-year MLB career behind the plate. Of his 826 career games, 774 have been as a catcher, with only 11 appearances at first base.
Injury Concerns and Aging Catchers
Injuries played a significant role in the Cardinals’ decision to shift Contreras to first base. In 2024, he missed substantial time after suffering a broken arm when hit by a swing from Mets DH J.D. Martinez. Despite this setback, Contreras still managed to hit 15 home runs with an impressive .842 OPS in 84 games.
It’s not uncommon for aging catchers to transition to less physically demanding positions to extend their careers. The constant crouching, blocking, and throwing can take a heavy toll on a catcher’s body over time. By moving Contreras to first base, the Cardinals hope to keep his potent bat in the lineup while minimizing the risk of further injuries.
A New Era at First Base and Behind the Plate
With long-time Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt departing via free agency, the door is open for Contreras to claim the position as his own. Meanwhile, the Cardinals appear confident in their young catching duo of Pedro Pages and Ivan Herrera, who split time in 2024 while Contreras was limited to just 51 games at catcher.
Herrera, 24, was particularly impressive, hitting .301 with an .800 OPS in 52 starts behind the dish. By moving Contreras to first base, the Cardinals can keep both his and Herrera’s bats in the lineup regularly, potentially forming a formidable offensive tandem.
Adapting to a New Role
Transitioning from catcher to first base is no small feat, even for a talented athlete like Contreras. He’ll need to adjust to new defensive responsibilities, including scooping throws in the dirt, holding runners on, and mastering the intricacies of positioning and footwork around the bag.
It’s going to be a challenge, but I’m ready to put in the work. I want to do whatever it takes to help this team win, and if that means playing first base, I’m all in.
–Willson Contreras, according to a source close to the player
Contreras’ work ethic and competitive drive should serve him well as he adapts to his new role. His experience as a catcher could also prove invaluable, as he’ll have a unique perspective on defensive positioning and pitch calling that could benefit the Cardinals’ young catching corps.
The Ripple Effect on the NL Central
The Cardinals’ decision to move Contreras to first base could have significant implications for the balance of power in the NL Central. By extending Contreras’ career and maximizing his offensive potential, the Cardinals are betting on his bat to help them remain competitive in a division that features the powerful Milwaukee Brewers and the up-and-coming Chicago Cubs.
Other teams in the division will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how Contreras adapts to his new role and whether the move pays off for the Cardinals in the long run. If successful, it could prompt other clubs to consider similar position changes for their own aging catchers.
A New Chapter in Contreras’ Career
For Willson Contreras, the move to first base represents a new chapter in an already impressive career. A three-time All-Star and World Series champion with the Cubs, Contreras has established himself as one of the game’s premier offensive catchers over the past decade.
Now, as he embarks on this new challenge with the Cardinals, Contreras has the opportunity to cement his legacy as a versatile and adaptable player who can excel both behind the plate and at first base. If he can maintain his offensive production while providing steady defense at first, he could become an even more valuable asset to the Cardinals’ pursuit of another championship.
The Future of Baseball Positions
The Contreras move also raises intriguing questions about the future of baseball positions and the increasing emphasis on versatility and adaptability in the modern game. As teams look for ways to keep their best players on the field and maximize their value, we may see more high-profile position changes like this one in the years to come.
For now, all eyes will be on Willson Contreras as he navigates this new challenge and strives to make a seamless transition to first base. If he can continue to produce at an elite level offensively while providing reliable defense, the Cardinals’ gamble on this position change could pay off handsomely in the years ahead.
