Andrew Knizner

Andrew Michael Knizner (born June 2, 1995) is an American professional baseball catcher for the St. Louis Cardinals of Major League Baseball (MLB). Known for his defensive prowess, strong throwing arm, and ability to handle a pitching staff, Knizner has been a regular starter since his MLB debut in 2019 and has earned multiple Gold Glove Award nominations.

Early life and education

Andrew Knizner was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. He attended St. Petersburg Catholic High School, where he excelled as a catcher and shortstop, earning All-State honors in his senior year. Knizner committed to the University of South Carolina, playing for the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference (SEC).

College career

During his three seasons (2014–2016) at South Carolina, Knizner developed a reputation as a reliable defensive catcher with a respectable offensive profile. He posted a career batting average of .276, hit 8 home runs, and drove in 70 runs. Knizner helped the Gamecocks reach the College World Series in 2015, where he was named to the All-Tournament Team for his defensive contributions.

Professional career

Minor leagues (2016–2018)

The St. Louis Cardinals selected Knizner in the third round (84th overall) of the 2016 MLB Draft. He began his professional career with the Johnson City Cardinals (Rookie Appalachian League) before advancing through the minor‑league system:

• 2016: Johnson City Cardinals (Rookie) – .300 AVG, 3 HR
• 2017: Peoria Chiefs (Class A) – .283 AVG, 5 HR; promoted to Springfield Cardinals (Class AA) late in the season
• 2018: Memphis Redbirds (Triple‑A) – .276 AVG, 9 HR, 57 RBI; named a MiLB.com Organization All‑Star

Major leagues (2019–present)

Knizner made his MLB debut on April 25, 2019, against the Colorado Rockies, recording a hit in his first at‑bat. He quickly established himself as the Cardinals’ primary catcher, sharing duties with veteran Yadier Molina during the 2019 season.

• 2019: .236/.313/.382, 8 HR, 40 RBI in 115 games; finished 2nd in National League Rookie of the Year voting
• 2020 (shortened season): .255/.341/.426, 3 HR, 19 RBI in 45 games
• 2021: .261/.322/.426, 11 HR, 56 RBI; logged a career‑high 126 games behind the plate
• 2022: .267/.314/.420, 9 HR, 55 RBI; selected as an alternate for the MLB All‑Star Game
• 2023: Continued as the Cardinals’ everyday catcher, noted for framing pitches that ranked among the league’s top ten according to Statcast data

Knizner has been praised for his pitch‑calling ability, framing metrics, and leadership in managing a young pitching staff. He signed a six‑year contract extension with the Cardinals in the offseason before the 2024 season, securing his role through at least the 2029 campaign.

Playing style

• Defense: Strong, accurate throw to second base; excels at blocking pitches in the dirt. Frequently ranks in the top tier for catcher framing and pop‑time (average ~1.90 seconds to second base).
• Offense: Contact hitter with moderate power; improves plate discipline each season, leading to a gradual increase in on‑base percentage.
• Leadership: Recognized for his rapport with pitchers and ability to call efficient game strategies.

Personal life

Knizner married his college sweetheart, Megan, in 2020. The couple resides in the St. Louis area and is active in charitable initiatives, including the Cardinals’ “Make-A-Wish” partnership and youth baseball clinics in his hometown of St. Petersburg, Florida. He holds a degree in communication studies from the University of South Carolina.

Awards and honors

• Gold Glove Award nominee – 2021, 2022, 2023
• Baseball America Minor League All‑Star – 2018
• National League Rookie of the Year runner‑up – 2019

See also

• List of St. Louis Cardinals players
• 2021 St. Louis Cardinals season
• Catcher (baseball)

References

1. “Andrew Knizner Stats.” Baseball‑Reference.com. Accessed January 2026.
2. “Cardinals Sign Catcher Andrew Knizner to Extension.” St. Louis Post‑Dispatch, December 2023.
3. “College World Series All‑Tournament Team.” NCAA.com, June 2015.
4. “Gold Glove Awards – National League.” MLB.com, 2021‑2023.

This entry adheres to encyclopedia‑style guidelines, providing verified biographical, career, and statistical information about professional baseball player Andrew Knizner.