Cardinals’ Ivan Herrera to Experiment with Knee Throws This Week

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — St. Louis Cardinals catcher Ivan Herrera plans to change up his throwing technique this week by making throws from his knees, a move aimed at improving his defensive game as he competes for more playing time this season.

Manager Oliver Marmol confirmed the adjustment during a press briefing on Wednesday morning. “We need to see it,” Marmol said. “See if this gives him a better shot at controlling the running game more than anything.”

Herrera started the week with a batting average of .364 and recently recorded his first multi-homer game, hitting two home runs in a match against the Los Angeles Angels. While his offensive performance has been strong, he faces criticism for allowing opponents to run freely on the bases, with runners successfully stealing from him five times this season. Last year, he was only able to thwart four out of 64 stolen base attempts.

Marmol has adopted a split strategy at catcher, rotating between Herrera and fellow catcher Pedro Pages based on game situations. During Monday’s extra-inning game against the Angels, Herrera was subbed out for Pages in the seventh inning to address the team’s concern over a series of base-stealing attempts.

Both catchers appeared in four of the first five games, leading to questions about how the Cardinals will manage the catching position throughout the season. When asked if both men could reach 130 appearances each by sharing game time, Marmol expressed doubts, indicating, “I hope not. That wouldn’t be my (preference).”

To enhance his skills, Herrera has taken a different approach to throwing, having experimented with knee throws since spring training. He believes this method may quicken his throws to second base. “It seems quicker. His body moves a little better and arm slot’s a lot better from his knees,” Marmol commented, noting positive signs from Herrera’s progress.

While working to strengthen his arm during the offseason, Herrera also attended training with Driveline, a private baseball performance facility where he underwent a program aimed at improving throwing velocity. He has reported improvements but recognizes the need for consistency in his throws to deter base stealers.

“He’s definitely determined to improve,” Marmol stated about Herrera. “I’m invested in him improving. I want to see that part of his game improve. The better he gets at that – we have a really good player on our hands.”

As the Cardinals gear up for the upcoming MLB draft, the organization is eyeing a strong selection with the No. 5 overall pick. Assistant General Manager Randy Flores is traveling extensively to scout top high school talent, including Ethan Holliday, son of Matt Holliday and a renowned prospect who may secure the first overall pick.

The Cardinals used the seventh overall pick last year on infielder JJ Wetherholt, who has since moved up in the minor leagues. This year’s high pick presents an enticing opportunity to secure another promising player. Potential competition for this pick comes from the Colorado Rockies, who hold the fourth overall selection.

In an additional note, prior to the regular season, the Cardinals emphasized to their hitters the importance of not tapping their helmets in a mocking manner towards the Automated Ball Strike (ABS) system, as this could result in immediate ejection. Many players supported having the option to challenge calls during games, which was tested during spring training.