When Kris Bryant's ill-fated foul tip caused an injury that sent the Cardinals searching for stronger cups for their catchers, the mind began to race.
Team officials and teammates balanced a fine line as it became clear that the club's iconic Gold Glove winner and All-Star would be on the shelf for at least a month. They spoke candidly about Molina's impact in every facet of the game while simultaneously trying to sound upbeat playing without him for a while.
Molina knows the pitching staff like the inside of his mitt. He helps control of the run game.