Yadier Molina gives Adam Wainwright early run support in Game 2 (Video)

Yadi and Waino go way back, and they’re ready to lead the Cards to a Game 2 win

Molina has been here before, so a clutch playoff hit is nothing new for him. Yadi is 38 years old now, and while he’s in his final years in St. Louis, he’s still more than capable of contributing to this squad. As the Cardinals made clear on Wednesday, this is a must-win game for them as well. The Padres have way too much talent from top to bottom to give them even an ounce of life. By taking care of business in Game 2, with their longtime ace on the mound, St. Louis can move forward to the NLDS without a sweat.

The Cardinals forced Zach Davies to throw 30 pitches in that first inning. Wainwright and Molina’s connection, especially in the postseason, gives the opposing team little wiggle room. By allowing an early lead, the Padres have already committed one sin, and surviving Game 2 won’t be an easy feat.

As Wainwright has aged, his velocity has decreased to the point his curveball has become his main weapon. Wainwright’s pitching arsenal has always included several breaking pitches, but they’re more useful to him now than ever. Molina knows what to call, making this battery as elite as ever.