The St. Louis Cardinals issued a double promotion on Friday: catching prospect Jimmy Crooks and infielder César Prieto were called up from Triple-A Memphis, both set to make their major league debuts. These roster moves came in response to injuries–outfielder Alec Burleson landed on the 10-day injured list with right-wrist inflammation, while catcher Yohel Pozo was placed on the seven-day concussion list.
Crooks, a 24-year-old left-handed hitter, enters as the No. 6 prospect in the Cardinals’ system, known for his pitch-framing skills and arm strength. Prieto, 26, adds infield depth across multiple positions. Both will fill crucial gaps in a team eyeing a late-season push.
Crooks Was Poised Behind the Plate, Ready in the Field
Crooks, the Cardinals’ 2024 Minor League Player of the Year, has posted solid numbers at Triple-A: a .274 batting average, 14 home runs, 79 RBIs, and a .778 OPS across 98 games. His defense is equally notable; throwing out nearly 30% of base stealers in Memphis.
He caught the final two innings of the Cardinals’ 7-5, 10-inning win in Cincinnati; his very first taste of major league action. Crooks’ calm composure under fire impressed skipper Oliver Marmol, especially considering he arrived in the midst of the game and called the final frame effectively.
Prieto Has A Rich Backstory and Infield Versatility
Prieto’s rise is a compelling tale of resilience. The Cuban-born infielder defected in 2021 during an Olympic qualifying trip, escaping under tense circumstances in pursuit of a baseball future.
“It was super hard to make that decision [to defect], but at the time I knew it was the right thing to do because I was doing it for something really good in my future,” Prieto said. “I feel lucky to have this opportunity to come to America and play baseball here, and I want to make the most of it.”
He signed with Baltimore in January 2022, then was part of the 2023 trade that sent Jack Flaherty to the Orioles.
This season, Prieto has excelled in Memphis with a .295 average, nine homers, 62 RBIs, and plenty of defensive versatility–playing across second, third, and shortstop with low error totals. He briefly pinch-hit in the 10th inning of Friday’s win, making his MLB debut, though he struck out.
“He’s had a solid ‘25 in Triple-A,” MLB.com’s John Denton said. “If/when he’s promoted, the Cardinals will have to make a corresponding move to add him to their 40-man roster.”
Long-Term Outlook: Impact and Expectations
Both call-ups come during a critical stage for the Cardinals. With the team hovering near .500, these prospects could offer not just roster help but a glimpse into the future. Crooks looks like a potential long-term option behind the plate, while Prieto’s defensive flexibility could make him a valuable utility piece.
Manager Marmol has indicated both rookies are expected to make their first MLB starts soon; likely in the upcoming finale in Cincinnati. Their immediate contribution might be modest, but the narrative is just beginning.
These promotions arrive as the Cardinals juggle roster constraints. With injuries stacking up and the 40-man roster nearing capacity, both call-ups underscore St. Louis’ need for depth and readiness.
Wetherholt on the Horizon
While Crooks and Prieto get their first taste of the Show, eyes are on JJ Wetherholt, the Cardinals’ elite prospect who has yet to be called up. A top-20, and in some rankings, top-5–minor-league player, he has gamers and analysts buzzing.
Since arriving in Triple-A, the 22-year-old infielder has torched opposing pitching–posting a slash line of .312/.420/.526 with 16 homers, 55 RBIs, and a staggering .946 OPS. His consistent dominance suggests that keeping him down much longer may be a missed opportunity.
Despite the excitement, Cardinals insiders say there’s no push to promote him just yet. The team appears focused on keeping his rookie eligibility intact. As of now, Wetherholt is expected to make his Major League debut in 2026.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Two Rookies Debut as Cardinals Fans Await Wetherholt’s Arrival appeared first on Heavy Sports.