It goes without a doubt to say Yadier Molina is an absolute GOAT.
As one of the best catchers within Major League history, Molina is always on top of the ball.
Literally.
So when he decided to have a little fun with a rookie during the Cardinals matchup against the Houston Astros this past Sunday for some good ol’ Grapefruit League Spring Training, we expected nothing less from Molina.
And when we say fun, it was more so like a little “welcome to the show” greeting by Molina.
As Jose Siri came in to pinch run for the Martín Maldonado at first base, Molina noticed the rookie and seemed like he wanted to truly give him that warm welcoming to the league.
So what does he do? He of course tells the pitcher to toss the ball over to first, you know just some quality control! Keep him in line!
With the throw coming down to first, Siri slides back to the bag and is safe. Phew, close one.
But Molina is not done yet, he’s just starting to have some fun.
Giving the side-eye to Siri on first, he signals the pitcher to go with the outside fastball. The pitch ended up going high and inside, but that doesn't stop Molina. No way. He tosses that cannon down the first baseline and almost gets the rookie AGAIN.
Okay, so we think he shook up the new kid a bit and maybe humbled him, right?
Nope, Siri is not liking that. Shaking his head and waving his finger, we don’t think this was a signal he should have sent Molina because what happens next is just ruthless.
Molina TELLS THE ROOKIE TO STEAL SECOND. Oh, do we love a good ol’ base-stealing race.
After a foul ball and a high pitch, it’s showtime. The count is 2-2. Let the games begin.
So as Molina signals for a changeup, he snags the pitch and absolutely sends it down to second, reaching the base a few solid seconds before Siri even slides into the bag.
WOW.
Molina then of course does his little stare down on his way back to the dugout and we are fired up. This is the type of stuff we love to see to get up hyped up for the regular season.
Put it in repeat ALL DAY.
