Cardinals Make Roster Moves Ahead of Brewers Matchup
The St. Louis Cardinals have announced significant roster adjustments as they gear up to face the Milwaukee Brewers. Prominent among these changes is the activation of seasoned infielder Matt Carpenter, a move that signals the team’s intent to fortify their lineup with veteran talent.
The Cardinals have also called back first baseman Luken Baker, aiming to bolster their attacking options further. Conversely, the team has parted ways with infielder Brandon Crawford, marking the end of his tenure with the club.
Outfielder Jordan Walker, who has been struggling, was optioned back to Triple-A Memphis. Over the past week, Walker has recorded just one hit in 11 at-bats, accompanied by three strikeouts and a solitary walk. Despite a promising rookie season in which he posted a commendable 113 OPS+ across 117 games, Walker has found the current season challenging. He is currently batting a meager .145/.228/.232 (30 OPS+) with no home runs and only five extra-base hits over 24 games.
At the Triple-A level, however, Walker has shown flashes of his potential. His .257/.321/.426 slash line and nine home runs in 78 games present a more optimistic picture. Yet, his OPS still trails the Memphis team average, indicating room for improvement.
John Mozeliak, the Cardinals’ president of baseball operations, has consistently emphasized the importance of game time for young players. “My philosophy is [and] has always been if you're a young player, you need to play,” Mozeliak stated. His decision to send Walker back to Triple-A underscores this belief. Mozeliak further elaborated, “I always cringe at the idea of someone who's 22 years old sitting on the bench.”
Walker’s re-assignment to Memphis is a strategic move aimed at providing him with regular playing opportunities, which are crucial for his development and confidence. As the Cardinals navigate the season, blending experienced players like Carpenter with emerging talent like Baker and refining the skills of young players like Walker will continue to be central to their strategy.
The Cardinals’ roster reshuffling reflects their ongoing efforts to strike the right balance between leveraging experience and nurturing future stars. As they face off against the Brewers, these changes could provide the spark needed to invigorate the team’s performance and secure vital wins.