5 teams that should sign Yadier Molina if he leaves the Cardinals after 2020

1. Texas Rangers

The Rangers were ready to spend big in free agency this offseason, ahead of their new ballpark opening. But they did not land Anthony Rendon or Josh Donaldson to fill a notable void at third base, instead settling for Todd Frazier as a solid consolation prize. Corey Kluber was acquired in a trade from the Indians, with Kyle Gibson and Jordan Lyles added to the rotation in free agency. A solid push up the AL West standings is not out of the question this year, especially in what will be a shortened season if it happens.

Texas brought back Robinson Chirinos to be their No. 1 catcher this offseason, on a one-year deal with a 2021 club option. He’s also turning 36 in June, and despite offering solid power (52 home runs over the last three seasons) he has yet to reach 400 at-bats in a season. By comparison, Molina has topped 400 at-bats in every season since 2008.

The Rangers will probably be aggressive again next offseason, with the question being who they will try to get via free agency or trades. Molina would be a solid fit on a one or two-year deal, where he can positively impact the pitching staff, hit in what should still be a hitter-friendly home park and perhaps mentor a young catcher if there’s one in the pipeline.