Few rivalries in Major League Baseball are as intense as the one between the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals. Both players and fans engage in heated discussions about this age-old rivalry off the diamond. A two-time World Series champion, Yadier Molina, recently sparked this rivalry unexpectedly with his comment that infuriated Cardinals supporters.

The remark appeared innocuous during a casual conversation, but after Cardinals supporters heard it, it swiftly became a firestorm. Although baseball players usually watch what they say about their opposing clubs, this remark went too far. Even though Yadier Molina is still regarded for his achievements on the field, Cardinals supporters feel deceived and disrespected by his recent comments. The episode demonstrates how brittle player-fan bonds can be, mainly when allegiance to a team’s heritage and identity is on the line.

In a recent interview with The Athletic, Yadier Molina, a great catcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, indicated he would be open to managing his longtime rivals, the Chicago Cubs. His 19-year career and legendary stature in baseball sparked discussion. The fans are going gaga over his statement shared on X, “I’d manage the Chicago Cubs if they want.”

After directing Team Puerto Rico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and retiring in 2022, Yadier Molina’s willingness to manage the Cubs is a surprising twist, especially given his reputation as a “Cubs killer” with a .285 hitting average against them. Molina recorded 2,168 hits, 176 home runs, and 1,022 RBIs in 2,224 games throughout his 19-year career with the St. Louis Cardinals. He was a defensive powerhouse who won nine Gold Gloves and four times led the league in caught stealing percentage. In 2006 and 2011, his clutch plays helped the Cardinals win two World Series.

Yadier Molina’s legacy in St. Louis is assured thanks to his ten All-Star appearances and 2013 Silver Slugger Award. Still, will it alter his tenure as manager of the Cubs or alter Cardinals fans’ perceptions of him?

Cardinals fans erupt after Yadier Molina’s Cubs bombshell:

Cardinals fan immediately reacted negatively to Yadier Molina’s remarks, as expected. Dramatic reactions erupted on social media. Some people found what they were hearing unbelievable. A fan scoffed, “Yeah, that’s not how it works, lol.” The Cardinals fans’ incredulity is reflected in this response; it is nearly impossible to comprehend that Molina would be handling their most formidable opponent.

Others’ reactions were more dramatic. A devoted fan just yelled, “NOOOOOOOO.” The one-word response perfectly captures the unfiltered, gut-punch sense of betrayal that many Cardinals supporters are experiencing. The idea of him wearing Cubs colors is enough to drive ardent supporters crazy. Yadier Molina is a St. Louis icon.

Next came some who questioned Yadier Molina’s sanity. One enthusiast cried, “Is he nuts????? Cards fans what say you!!!”. The concept of Molina managing the Cubs feels like a total role reversal, which is reasonable given that he spent his career torturing them.

It’s interesting to note that some Cardinals supporters blamed the organization. A fan commented, “If the Cardinals let that happen (by not having him manage in St. Louis), then it’s on the Cardinals in my book, and I would REALLY hate for that to happen”. This remark reveals the underlying annoyance that the Cardinals might have let their opponent take over as manager because they could not guarantee Molina’s management future.

Despite the commotion, not everyone opposed the proposal. A fan who understood the broader picture said,“I’ve been saying for a while I think Yadier will make a great MLB manager one day. Great baseball IQ.” Excellent baseball IQ. Although it hurts to be in charge of the Cubs, Molina’s leadership and tactical prowess are indisputable, and some fans see that he could have a bright future in the dugout, even if it is against the opposition.

The Cubs and Cardinals are at a turning point in 2025. Fueled by recruits, the Cubs are anxious to end their postseason streak despite their 2024 record of 83-79. The Cardinals are inconsistent as they attempt to rebuild around Arenado. The rivalry is now stoked by Molina’s possible Cubs administration, which turns it into a high-stakes, emotionally charged powder bomb. Every managerial decision might be interpreted as a betrayal, and every game may turn into a loyalty vote. The stakes have never been higher.

Loyalty is the cornerstone of baseball rivalries, and Molina’s willingness to take over the Cubs upended that. It feels like a betrayal to imagine him wearing a Cubs uniform after he has represented the Cardinals for almost 20 years. Will Cardinals supporters ever forgive Yadier Molina if he accepts the position with the Cubs, or is this a boundary that cannot be crossed?