Luken Baker in spring training (Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
The St. Louis Cardinals have recalled slugging prospect Luken Baker. Also, in a corresponding move, they have designated Oscar Mercado for assignment.
Logjam in the Outfield
The Mercado move makes sense with the logjam in the Cardinal outfield. He posted a slash line of .290/.313/.387 along with good defense in limited playing time. However, that wasn’t enough to convince Cardinals’ management into giving him a larger role on the roster.
Their current active roster has six players capable of playing the outfield, not including Mercado. Also, Tyler O’Neill is due to begin a rehab assignment, so his return is potentially imminent. Unfortunately for Mercado, there just aren’t enough at bats to go around.
Cardinals’ Slugger Luken Baker Having Breakout Season
There haven’t been many bright spots this season for Cardinals organization. However, the performance Baker has put on should be getting the attention of the Cardinals front office and general managers all across the league.
Quite simply, Baker has been punishing the baseball in Triple-A Memphis. This season has truly been a breakout season for the 26 year old Baker. He has shown much improved plate discipline and has cut down on the strikeouts. Seemingly, something has clicked in a big way for the imposing slugger.
Baker Has Nothing Left to Prove
The 6’4″ first baseman is an imposing figure at the plate. Every time he steps into the batter’s box, there’s a chance for a longball. He has put up an impressive .319/.434/.664 slash line at Triple-A Memphis this season. Also, Baker has blasted 22 homeruns and driven in 60. Numbers like those can’t be ignored. The 26 year old has nothing left to prove in Memphis. It’s time for the Cardinals to get him regular at bats at the major league level.
The Cardinals desperately need a spark, and Baker might be able to provide it. He could provide the thump that’s needed in the Cardinals’ lineup. It could also serve as a showcase for other teams that may be interested in him. Either way, it would benefit the team if Baker’s bat is in the lineup.
