Cardinals shift Willson Contreras to first base and DH to support young catchers

The St. Louis Cardinals are moving Willson Contreras to first base and designated hitter to create playing time for younger catchers Ivan Herrera and Pedro Pages. This shift comes as part of the team's strategy to focus on future development. Contreras, who has expressed a desire to stay with the Cardinals, will likely not catch again, according to team executive John Mozeliak. The change aims to extend Contreras' career and improve the team's offensive strength. Contreras, entering the third year of a five-year contract, has faced injuries that limited his playing time. He has only played 11 games at first base in his career. The Cardinals are also exploring trades and other roster moves as they prepare for the upcoming season.