1. “St. Louis will always hold a special place in my heart.”
2. “Every game is an opportunity to prove myself.”
3. “Defense is where I make my mark.”
4. “There’s nothing like turning a double play.”
5. “Hustle is non-negotiable.”
6. “The feeling of a walk-off hit is unmatched.”
7. “It’s not about how you start, but how you finish.”
8. “Picking off runners is an art form.”
9. “I’m always working on my baserunning instincts.”
10. “Every swing has a purpose.”
11. “Grateful to represent Hawaii on the big stage.”
12. “Fans fuel my passion.”
13. “My family keeps me grounded.”
14. “The grind never stops.”
15. “No moment is too big.”
16. “I play for my teammates.”
17. “Speed is one of my greatest assets.”
18. “Every error is a lesson.”
19. “The game is won on the details.”
20. “Baseball is life.”
21. “I visualize success before stepping on the field.”
22. “Practice like you play.”
23. “Taking extra bases can change the game.”
24. “A strong infield wins championships.”
25. “I’m always improving my glove work.”
26. “Pressure is part of the game.”
27. “The journey to the majors was worth every sacrifice.”
28. “Home runs are sweet, but small ball wins games.”
29. “Adversity reveals character.”
30. “Perseverance defines me.”
31. “The little things make a big difference.”
32. “Preparation breeds confidence.”
33. “Trust the process.”
34. “Chemistry in the clubhouse is crucial.”
35. “Stay hungry, stay humble.”
36. “I want to be the best teammate possible.”
37. “Every season is a new chapter.”
38. “Legacy is built one play at a time.”
39. “Faith plays a huge role in my life.”
40. “Gratitude keeps me focused.”
41. “Never underestimate heart.”
42. “Baseball is a constant learning experience.”
43. “Injuries are temporary setbacks.”
44. “Success is a team effort.”
45. “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
46. “Stay adaptable, stay relevant.”
47. “The thrill of the game never gets old.”
48. “Contributing to a win is the ultimate goal.”
49. “Mentorship is a two-way street.”
50. “Focus on what you can control.”
Kolten Wong Chats with Yadier Molina About Baseball and Beyond
Kolten Wong: “Hey Yadi! Long time no see, man. How’s retirement treating you?”
Yadier Molina: “Kolten! It’s been good. More time for family, you know? But I miss the game, the camaraderie. How about you, how’s Milwaukee? You settling in well?”
Kolten Wong: “Yeah, Milwaukee’s been great. Still weird not wearing the Cardinals red, but the Brewers have a solid team, and the fans are passionate. Speaking of which, you must have a ton of stories about your time playing, what do you miss the most?”
Yadier Molina: “Definitely the clubhouse vibe. The teasing, the jokes, but also those moments before a game when everyone is locked in. What about you? What’s been the biggest challenge transitioning from St. Louis to Milwaukee?”
Kolten Wong: “Honestly, just the cold! (laughs) But seriously, it’s been adjusting to a new team, new city, new dynamics. Everyone’s been welcoming, though. And speaking of challenges, how’s coaching in Puerto Rico going? I heard you’re doing some amazing things there.”
Yadier Molina: “It’s been rewarding, for sure. Working with young talent and seeing their growth is incredible. Reminds me of when we were rookies, trying to find our way. Speaking of growth, your defense and leadoff skills are always on point. How do you keep honing your game?”
Kolten Wong: “Thanks, Yadi. Coming from you, that means a lot. I try to stay adaptable, always learning. You set a great example of never being complacent. So, any chance we’re seeing you back in the dugout in some coaching capacity in the MLB soon?”
Yadier Molina: “Never say never! Baseball’s in my blood. But right now, I’m focused on the present. Helping develop the future generation is pretty special. Speaking of which, what advice would you give to young players looking to make it to the big leagues?”
Kolten Wong: “Stay humble, stay hungry. Never stop working on your craft, and always have fun. The love for the game should be your driving force. You taught me that, remember? So, what’s next on Yadi’s bucket list?”
Yadier Molina: “A bit of everything! Spending more quality time with family, maybe a bit of travel, who knows? The baseball chapter might be closing for now, but life has a lot to offer beyond the diamond too. And you, what’s next for Kolten Wong?”
Kolten Wong: “Keep pushing with the Brewers, hopefully lead them to a title. And, continue to grow my foundation. Giving back to the community is as important as any championship. Thanks for the chat, Yadi. It’s always inspiring catching up with you.”
Yadier Molina: “Anytime, Kolten. Proud of you. Keep making waves out there.”