While the St. Louis Cardinals may not be actively looking to move on from manager Oli Marmol, one more potential future replacement is likely off the table after Sunday night.
The Cardinals have exceeded expectations so far this season, sitting in the thick of the NL Wild Card race at the All-Star break. This unexpected surge, especially with a roster centered around young talent, has even elevated Marmol’s standing — the same manager fans called to be fired just a year ago — into the conversation for NL Manager of the Year. For now, his job is secure.
Still, that hasn’t quieted the speculation. Cardinals fans have long romanticized the idea of a beloved former player returning to lead the team. Marmol, despite his success, doesn’t have the legendary status of figures like Albert Pujols or Yadier Molina, both of whom have gained managerial experience abroad in venues like the World Baseball Classic and Mexican Winter League, earning high praise.
Albert Pujols Remains a Viable Future Option
Pujols has openly expressed a desire to manage in MLB one day.
“I feel that I can offer so much to players and to teams,” Pujols said. “It’s not about me. It’s about helping others… That’s why I want to do it.”
Given his passion and track record, Pujols could be a serious managerial candidate should a change ever occur in St. Louis.
Matt Holliday’s Coaching Path Likely Heads to Colorado
Another respected former Cardinal, Matt Holliday, emerged as a possible future coach. But during the MLB Draft, when his son Ethan Holliday was selected fourth overall by the Colorado Rockies, Matt hinted that his future might lie there instead.
Asked if he’d be open to working with the Rockies, Holliday responded:
“I’m happy to be as involved or in the background as they would like for me to be.”
Though currently not in a coaching role, Holliday has strong ties to Colorado. Given the Rockies’ struggles — including firing manager Bud Black and flirting with a record-breaking loss total — they may be open to giving Holliday a greater role within the organization. If Ethan performs well and Matt joins in any capacity, he could gain significant influence quickly.
That scenario likely ends any dreams of Holliday eventually managing the Cardinals. If he enters the coaching ranks, it will almost certainly be in Colorado — not St. Louis.
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