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The St. Louis Cardinals‘ prospect Luken Baker has been named this season’s International League MVP. The slugging first baseman put up some eye-opening numbers this year at Triple-A Memphis. Baker hit 33 homeruns with 98 RBIs, a .334 average and a 1.159 OPS.
There weren’t many bright spots this season for Cardinals organization. However, the performance Baker put on should be getting the attention of the Cardinals front office and general managers all across the league.
Imposing Figure at the Plate
The Cardinals prospect Baker has to be an intimidating figure for opposing pitchers to face. At 6’4″ and 280 pounds, the right-handed, power hitting first baseman has raw power that doesn’t come around very often. His size alone is enough to give pitchers nightmares. Add his mammoth homeruns to the mix, and it’s surely nightmare fuel.
Quite simply, Baker punished the baseball in Triple-A Memphis, and it was truly a breakout season for the 26 year old. Additionally, he showed much improved plate discipline and cut down on the strikeouts. Seemingly, something has clicked in a big way for the imposing slugger.
Cardinals Prospect Baker Saw Limited Playing Time
The power hitting first baseman/DH saw little playing time when he was called up this season. Unfortunately for Baker, he’s blocked by the former National League MVP, Paul Goldschmidt. Furthermore, the at-bats at designated hitter were given to Nolan Gorman, top prospect Jordan Walker and Willson Contreras, on a regular basis. Also, when super utilty-man Brendan Donovan hurt his throwing arm, he took all of the time at DH. All of these factors seemingly caused Baker to be the odd man out.
Tough Decisions Ahead for Front Office
There are many questions ahead in regard to the Cardinals roster for 2024. Undoubtedly, the front office has some tough decisions ahead. Also, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Cardinals used the slugging prospect Baker as a trade chip this off-season. His value is higher than it has ever been, and there’s no clear path to playing time if he stays with the Cardinals organization.
