Oliver Marmol’s inaugural season as the St. Louis Cardinals‘ manager was promising, with the team achieving a 93-69 record. However, the subsequent two seasons have been disappointing. Currently, the Cardinals are struggling with a 63-64 record, sitting 4.5 games out of a Wild Card spot as they approach today’s MLB games.
With the team’s performance raising questions about Marmol’s future, speculation about potential replacements is growing. MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post has suggested two notable candidates: Yadier Molina and Skip Schumaker. Molina, a 10-time All-Star, has not yet ventured into MLB coaching but is a revered figure who could reinvigorate the team. On the other hand, Schumaker, who is currently managing the Miami Marlins, is also a strong contender. Despite Miami’s challenging season, Schumaker was named Manager of the Year in 2023 after leading the Marlins to the playoffs with an 84-78 record. His success in Miami, despite budget constraints, suggests he might excel in a more competitive environment.
The Cardinals face a crucial decision as they contemplate whether to retain Marmol or opt for a change. Choosing between Molina’s potential and Schumaker’s proven track record will be critical for the team’s future success.