Cardinals Consider Franchise Legends for Managerial Role in 2026
The St. Louis Cardinals are poised for a transformative offseason. With John Mozeliak stepping aside as president of baseball operations and Chaim Bloom stepping in, the franchise faces pivotal decisions that could shape its future. Central to this discussion is the fate of manager Oli Marmol, whose position may be under scrutiny as the organization embarks on a necessary rebuild.
The Managerial Question
As the Cardinals plot their course, one pressing question looms: will Marmol retain his role through 2026? Early indications suggest Bloom may lean towards keeping Marmol at the helm, potentially extending his contract. However, the allure of franchise icons Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina stepping into managerial roles adds a layer of complexity to the conversation.
During a recent episode of the “Dealin’ the Cards” podcast, analyst Josh Jacobs examined the potential impact of hiring Pujols or Molina as managers. He posited that if either legend expressed genuine interest in taking on the managerial mantle, it would be hard for ownership to overlook the excitement and renewed fan engagement such a move could generate.
Pujols and Molina: More Than Just Nostalgia
Jacobs emphasized the tangible advantages of considering these two storied players. “If Pujols is truly like ‘Hey, I’ll manage for you next year,’ or Yadi, that temptation… the allure of that, the excitement, even for ownership, is significant,” he stated. He further elaborated that while the prospect of bringing back these icons would create buzz, both possess the skills to succeed in management. Jacobs expressed greater confidence in Pujols as a managerial candidate compared to Molina.
The departure of Pujols and Molina in 2022 marked the end of an era for the Cardinals, coinciding with the team’s last postseason appearance. Their return to the fold, even in a managerial capacity, could rekindle the passion among fans that has waned since their exits.
Evaluating Marmol’s Performance
While Marmol has adeptly navigated challenges this season, helping keep the Cardinals competitive in the National League Wild Card race with limited resources, the potential for a managerial shift remains intriguing. If either Pujols or Molina are willing to take on a leadership role, Bloom and ownership should weigh the benefits of such a move against the backdrop of declining attendance at Busch Stadium.
The presence of these franchise legends would likely bolster attendance, breathing new life into a fanbase eager for a revival. Their established respect within the clubhouse, paired with their previous successes as managers in the World Baseball Classic and Winter Leagues, sets them apart from past managerial transitions, such as the hiring of Mike Matheny following Tony La Russa’s tenure.
Looking Ahead
As the Cardinals navigate this critical period, the possibility of Pujols or Molina taking the managerial reins in 2026 could serve as a catalyst for both rejuvenating the franchise and re-engaging the fanbase. With significant changes on the horizon, the organization must carefully consider its options to ensure a successful future.
