Hochman: Sunday symbolism at Busch -- Arenado, 'Mo,' empty seats, Herrera HRs for Cardinals

Guerrero: Manager Oli Marmol touched on the two focuses for reestablishing himself behind the plate. Herrera will need to improve his arm strength and with his game calling. Herrera is expected to undergo surgery on his right elbow this winter. He said Sunday he's dealt with an elbow issue "for the last three years" that hurts him when he throws 100%. He said he tried to play through the injury to avoid surgery, but he will get the operation this winter. Herreras has showcased his offensive ceiling this year despite having some start and stop because of two left leg injuries (bone bruise in his left knee and a left hamstring strain), so the throwing and game-calling aspects to his defense will be the big storylines to watch as the 25-year-old Herrera looks to handle the primary catching duties. But as you mention, the catching spot is a deep position in the majors and minors. Pedro Pages has handled big-league catching duties and established a strong rapport with the pitching staff, so he remains a part of the equation moving forward. Yohel Pozo took on innings at the position and the Cardinals have gotten a look at him. Jimmy Crooks, the top catching prospect in the system entering 2025, is in the majors and garnered some praise from Marmol on his preparation in working with the pitching staff and with how "quiet" he is behind the plate. Leonardo Bernal was Springfield's primary catcher this season and will need to be added to the Cardinals' 40-man roster this offseason to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. Rainiel Rodriguez reached Class High-A for a brief stay before Peoria's season wrapped up, but he is still just 18 years old and still will require ample time in the minors to develop.