Electric Cardinals Prospect Officially Gets Shot In Big Leagues As Club Contemplates Next Steps

St. Louis was busy Wednesday afternoon and officially called up an intriguing prospect

The St. Louis Cardinals are calling up one of their most intriguing prospects. 

St. Louis has dealt with a plethora of injuries this season and they aren't slowing down. The Cardinals officially placed young outfielder Alec Burleson on the injured list due to a left thumb fracture effectively ending his season and called up catcher Iván Herrera, according to the club. 

"(Catcher) Iván Herrera has been recalled from Memphis (AAA)," the club said. "(Outfielder) Alec Burleson (left thumb fracture) has been placed on the 10-day (injured list)."

Earlier this season Herrera was ranked as the Cardinals' No. 6 prospect but has since graduated from MLB.com's rankings. The young catcher has been exceptional for St. Louis in the minor leagues this season. Herrera has appeared in 83 games for the Memphis Redbirds and slashed .297/.451/.500 with 10 home runs and 60 RBIs. The 23-year-old appeared in eight games with the Cardinals earlier this season and slashed .348/.423/.391 with eight hits and two RBIs. 

St. Louis has just 11 games left this season and it could be very important for Herrera. The Cardinals likely will be very active this offseason so the club will look different next season. Willson Contreras is under contract and will be back as the club's starter but there have been rumblings that fan-favorite Andrew Knizner could be on the move this upcoming offseason. If Knizner is dealt this offseason, it could open the door for Herrera to have an extended role in 2024. 

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