JUPITER, Fla. — The official start of Cardinals’ spring training camp for pitchers and catchers isn’t until Wednesday. But in a small area adjacent to the batting cages outside the clubhouse, Jose Oquendo is holding court. Most of his defensive instruction involves infielders, but pitchers and even catchers who like to play shortstop — such as Yadier Molina — also are welcome.
Soon, Oquendo will work in concert with the big-league coaches, notably infield coach Stubby Clapp. Shortly after that, “I’ll move out of the way,” said Oquendo, who then will begin to work with the minor leaguers.