Cardinals Make Exciting Move Ahead of Dodgers Matchup

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Cardinals Make Exciting Move Ahead of Dodgers Matchup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Aug 31, 2026 9:07 AM ET

The St. Louis Cardinals are preparing to give one of their top prospects his first taste of the major leagues.

The Cardinals plan to call up 22-year-old catcher Leo Bernal, according to Francys Romero. The organization’s No. 7 prospect is expected to make his MLB debut when St. Louis begins its series against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday.

Bernal’s promotion comes as Major League Baseball prepares for September roster expansions, giving the Cardinals an opportunity to see how one of their most promising young players handles the jump to the majors.

Romero reported the Cardinals’ plans on his verified X account, providing the initial confirmation of Bernal’s expected arrival.

Sources: The St. Louis Cardinals plan to call up 22-year-old Panamanian catcher Leo Bernal, the organization’s No. 7 prospect, according to @MLBPipeline.

Bernal is expected to make his MLB debut when the Cardinals face the Dodgers in Los Angeles beginning Tuesday.
— Francys Romero (@FrancysRomero) August 31, 2026

Bernal has spent most of the 2026 season with Triple-A Memphis, where he has established himself as a productive offensive option.

The 22-year-old is hitting .278 with 16 home runs and 77 RBIs in 101 games for Memphis, while also scoring 67 runs.

The Cardinals have already protected Bernal on their 40-man roster, setting the stage for a potential major league opportunity when the timing is right.

His versatility could also help St. Louis manage his introduction to the big leagues. Bernal has primarily worked behind the plate but has also made 30 starts at first base and designated hitter in Memphis.

St. Louis Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol (37) Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

That flexibility could be useful with the Cardinals already carrying Pedro Pagés and Ivan Herrera behind the plate. Rather than simply filling a roster spot, Bernal now has an opportunity to show the organization what he can do against major league pitching.

His first test could hardly be more notable. The Cardinals are heading to Los Angeles to face the defending division powerhouse, giving Bernal an immediate opportunity to make his major league debut on one of baseball’s biggest stages.

For St. Louis, the upcoming series offers more than another late-season matchup. It could also provide an early look at whether Bernal can become part of the club’s long-term plans.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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