Lars Nootbaar’s fame has quickly spread all the way from St. Louis to Japan.
St. Louis Cardinals fans can certainly attest to how fun-loving and full of energy the young outfielder is.
On Friday, he was asked to deliver a hype speech for Team Japan before their game.
And in that speech, Nootbaar displayed his fun-loving personality, as well as some leadership skills.
The young outfielder is well respected by the veterans in the Cardinals clubhouse, including Adam Wainwright, Miles Mikolas, Nolan Arenado, and Paul Goldschmidt.
On Twitter, a Cardinals analyst retweeted a video of Nootbaar’s speech, and pondered if now might be the time to give the 25-year-old a contract extension.
Is now the right time to ask if Lars Nootbaar should be the one seeking a record breaking contract? #STLCards https://t.co/22DNz89m6D
— Joshua Jacobs (@joshjacoMLB) March 10, 2023
Nootbaar isn’t quite a superstar just yet, but he may be on his way to becoming one.
Cardinals fans have been clamoring all spring for a potential contract extension for top prospect Jordan Walker.
However, Nootbaar is quickly becoming somewhat of a clubhouse leader.
He has earned the respect of the veterans in the clubhouse and fans enjoy him for his infectious energy, which has clearly spread all the way to Japan.
Cardinals fans would certainly enjoy the opportunity to watch him play right field for the team for years to come.
The 25-year-old’s defense is elite, and he also possesses some power from the left side of the plate, as well as a little speed on the basepaths.
It’s no secret that he is a fan-favorite.
Now might not be the time to talk about a long-term extension just yet, but if Nootbaar continues to improve, that time will arrive.
NEXT:
Cardinals Fan Favorite Lars Nootbaar Comments On Playing In The WBC
