The St. Louis Cardinals No. prospect within the organization, Thomas Saggese, is being called up after an injury to a major utility piece, as reported by Robert Murray of MLB Insider.
Sources: The St. Louis Cardinals are calling up infielder Thomas Saggese. Saggese, the Cardinals’ No. 4 prospect, was acquired by St. Louis from the Rangers in the Jordan Montgomery trade in 2023.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) September 10, 2024
A top prospect within the Cardinals organization, Saggese was acquired at the 2023 trade deadline deal of left-hander Jordan Montgomery. As a result of Brendan Donovan‘s nagging foot infection, Saggese will presumably make his MLB debut over the coming weeks.
Cardinals to Promote Thomas Saggese
Following a season of relatively low production from star third-baseman Nolan Arenado and former National League MVP Paul Goldschmidt, the Cardinals have looked for other options in their infield. The minor-league home run leader, Luken Baker, has made a minimal splash in the Cardinals’ offense. They also called up infielder Jose Fermin as the corresponding move to the demotion of the strikeout-prone Nolan Gorman.
This season, Donovan has provided high offensive contact numbers and unmatched defence flexibility. However, Saggese’s debut will provide some exciting moments for a Cardinals team who are all but out of postseason contention.
Like Donovan, Saggese can play multiple positions within the infield, including second base, third base, and shortstop. This season with Triple-A Memphis, he has slashed .253/.438/.313 with 20 home runs and 67 RBI. As the Cardinals look forward to 2025, Saggese’s performance down the stretch might influence his chances of making the next Opening Day roster.
Donovan’s Injury
Cardinals utility player Brendan Donovan has had a solid offensive season, slashing .266/.331/.396 with a 102 OPS+. With his stellar defense, he is potentially in line to win his second Gold Glove at the utility position.
Donovan is day-to-day after missing the final two games against the Seattle Mariners due to a foot infection. Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol reported on September 7 that it was painful for Donovan to put pressure on his foot. With the call-up of Saggese, Donovan will likely see a short stint on the IL.
Main Photo: © Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
