What It Means:

Molina was also out of the lineup Thursday against the Milwaukee Brewers. Tony Cruz will bat seventh and handle the catching duties.

Our algorithms show that the Cardinals already have 100.0 percent playoff odds, so it could be that the team is resting its top position players. At the same time, Molina has really not had a good second half. He holds a .253/.296/.346 slash since the All-Star break and a 23.2 hard-hit rate. His defense has still been above average with four Defensive Runs Saved, but the offense leaves reason for concern heading into the postseason.