Cardinals Add Red-Hot Slugging Prospect By Designating Veteran For Assignment

The St. Louis Cardinals made a move to add some pop to the lineup by adding a slugger who has waited a long time to hear his name called.

After a surge last month where the Cardinals started to look like the team they were expected to be, St. Louis is struggling once again and could use some adjustments as they sit in last place of the National League Central.

The Cardinals called up first baseman Luken Baker to the active roster, who will make his major league debut on Sunday. To make room for Baker, St. Louis designated catcher Tres Barrera for assignment. 

This move was a smart one, as Barrera was just taking up room on the roster. Despite being on the roster for 28 consecutive days, the 28-year-old only appeared in six games with two plate appearances.

Baker will look to provide a jolt to the offense after a breakout start for Triple-A Springfield. The 26-year-old hit .313 with 29 extra-base hits and an incredible 18 home runs with 53 RBIs and a 1.075 OPS in 54 games.

The 6-foot-4, 280-pound hulking first baseman will have a chance to assume the designated hitter role while providing a similar level of power he possessed in Springfield.

The offense has not been the issue this year but the Cardinals might need to form a juggernaut just to offset the lackluster pitching staff. Until the trade deadline, that might just be the best route to keep the season alive.