Willson Contreras is casting a broader shadow in St. Louis Cardinals' camp this spring, physical modifications resulting from a weight-room regimen he adopted to bulk up for a move to first base.

St. Louis Cardinals slugger Willson Contreras showed up heavier than normal in hopes of producing more power in 2025.

In today’s 10 a.m. “Ten Hochman” sports video — brought to you by Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, home of St. Louis Cardinals spring training — Ben Hochman discusses Willson Contreras’

In Saturday’ spring opener vs. the Marlins, the Cardinals lineup features some of the club’s projected starters like third baseman Nolan Arenado, catcher Willson Contreras, and shortstop Masyn Winn.

This position change for Contreras comes after the 32-year-old played only 84 games last season due to multiple injuries. The hope from here is that this change to first base will allow him to stay healthier and make a more significant impact at the plate as the Cardinals look to bounce back in 2025.

The St. Louis Cardinals entered the 2024 campaign with one of the most promising offenses in all of baseball on paper, and yet, they ranked 22nd in runs scored,

Bulks up over winter

Asked if he had a home run total in mind for his inaugural season out of shin pads, Contreras smirked and relayed a conversation he recently had with his brother, William, the catcher for the Milwaukee Brewers.

Willson Contreras is casting a broader shadow in St. Louis Cardinals' camp this spring, physical modifications resulting from a weight-room regimen he adopted to bulk up for a move to first base.