In an interview with Katie Woo of The Athletic on Monday, Molina explained his temporary absence from the Cardinals, where he signed on as a special assistant to John Mozeliak in the winter of 2023. “I’ve been away from my family for many years,” Molina said. “I decided to take a break and put them as my priority right now.”

Cardinals legend Yadier Molina wants to be a manager so badly he would even do it with the hated Chicago Cubs.

Molina remains hopeful about making a trip to Busch Stadium some time this year, but his family schedule is the priority.