Cardinals’ Ivan Herrera Facing Major Obstacle in Spring Training

The 2026 season will be an interesting one for the St. Louis Cardinals, as younger players will finally get their opportunities to play every day and make an impression, as well as potentially secure their spots on the roster for the future.

One player that will be getting more opportunities is Ivan Herrera. He emerged as an everyday player last year because of his bat. He also was set to play for his native Panama in the World Baseball Classic.

Unfortunately, several players have had to withdraw because of insurance issues, and according to insider Jeff Jones, Herrera is the latest casualty.

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Herrera withdraws from WBC

Aug 31, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; St. Louis Cardinals designated hitter Ivan Herrera (48) high fives teammates after scoring on a double hit by shortstop Thomas Saggese (not pictured) in the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

"Herrera said he found out today that he wouldn’t be cleared and called it 'sad.' Said he’d been looking forward to it ever since the last WBC but understands there’s only so much anyone can do. Sounded pretty definitive that he won’t be going," Jones reported.

Unfortunately, Herrera's offseason elbow surgery is what is ultimately preventing him from being able to play, as he has not been able to receive the insurance to do so. This is certainly disappointing news for Herrera, who has not yet competed in the WBC.

The 25-year-old hit .284/.373/.464 with 19 home runs, 66 RBI and an .837 OPS last season. He will compete for more opportunities behind the plate, but if that doesn't work out, he'll simply end up as the designated hitter. He has become a crucial piece of the puzzle for St. Louis and is somebody they'll be building around in the next few years.

But it's sad that another issue has arisen for an exciting player looking to play in the WBC. He and catching prospect Leonardo Bernal were set to represent the Cardinals for Panama. Now, it appears that it's down to Bernal, assuming he doesn't have any issues.

The Classic begins on Thursday, March 5. Fellow Cardinals Thomas Saggese and Gordon Graceffo will play for Team Italy. Several former Cardinals will also play in the tournament. Reliever Riley O'Brien will suit up for Team Korea. Unfortunately, Herrera is no longer one of them, so he'll stay at spring training unless something changes.

He's still an exciting young player and could be crucial for the Cardinals in the future.

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