Cardinals’ Ambidextrous Prospect Ready to Make History

The St. Louis Cardinals added a different type of player in their most recent trade. In the world of professional baseball, the term “switch-hitter” is commonplace. The term “switch-pitcher,” however, is a rarity. Enter Jurrangelo Cijntje (pronounced SAIN-juh), the newest addition to the Cardinals’ farm system.

Acquired in February 2026 as the centerpiece of a blockbuster three-team trade that sent fan-favorite Brendan Donovan to the Seattle Mariners. Cijntje is more than just a novelty act, he is a high-ceiling prospect.

Cardinals Add a Natural Lefty, a Trained Righty

Born in the Netherlands and raised in Curacao, Cijntje’s path to ambidexterity began with a simple act of childhood devotion. Though naturally left-handed, he began throwing with his right hand at age six to mimic his father, Mechangelo. Who was a professional catcher that only owned right-handed gear.

What started as an improvisation became a superpower. By the time he reached the 2016 Little League World Series, Cijntje was already a viral sensation. Impressively, he baffled young hitters by swapping gloves mid-inning.

The Scouting Report: Two Pitchers in One

Cijntje isn’t just “functional” from both sides. He possesses legitimate professional “stuff” with both arms. However, scouts and the Cardinals’ front office, led by Chaim Bloom, have noted a distinct difference in his profiles.

The right side is where Cijntje flashes “ace” potential. The young pitcher features a mid-90s fastball that can touch 99 mph. Additionally, he has a sharp, mid-80s slider and a fading changeup. His mechanics are more polished on the right-handed side. Leading most to project him as a mid-rotation starter from the right side.

From the left side Cijntje adopts a lower, more “reliever-ish” arm slot. His velocity sits in the low 90s, but he utilizes a sweeping, high-spin slider that is devastating against left-handed batters.