Cardinals veteran infielder Matt Carpenter faces questions concerning the end of his career as he enters free agency. Carpenter, 38, was drafted by St. Louis in the 13th round of the 2009 MLB Amateur Draft. After 11 years with the Cardinals, including a World Series appearance, Carpenter’s contract was not extended in 2021. After stints with the Yankees and the Padres, Carpenter returned to St. Louis for 2024. On a one-year, league-minimum contract, Carpenter played innings as a utility infielder off the bench. Now, as a free agent, he looks to continue his career in a support role for a major-league team.
Cardinals Veteran Infielder Open To Playing In 2025
Not Always A Veteran
Carpenter, after playing a multitude of positions at the dawn of his career, settled in as the Cardinals every-day third baseman in the mid-2010s. He had three all-star campaigns and even received MVP votes in 2018 with his 36 HR season. However, after the acquisition of superstar Nolan Arenado, Carpenter’s place in the lineup was left in flux. Later that year, the Cardinals decided not to extend his contract, Many thought Carpenter’s career to be coming to a close.
Nevertheless, he was able to revive his career in New York. Across 47 games in 2022, Carpenter slashed .305/.727/.412 with 15 HR and 37 RBI. He even made multiple postseason appearances in their run to the ALCS that year. This led to him signing a two-year, $12 million guaranteed contract with the Padres in 2022, but he was later traded to the Atlanta Braves and released.
The Cardinals, who have recently welcomed back multiple team legends at the end of their career, brought him back for the 2024 season. Although they had plans to compete, the Cardinals fell well short of the postseason, and Carpenter’s limited playing time stunted the emotions of his reunion.
Free Agent Profile
According to Derrick Goold, Carpenter is “open” to playing in 2025.
Within this Cardinals Extra @stltoday:
— Matt Carpenter wants to play 2025, open to role he enjoyed having this season.
— Sonny Gray pitched through soreness Wednesday, setting up a decision this weekend on his next start, if he makes one.
And more: https://t.co/oWBj60QiJk
— Derrick Goold (@dgoold) September 20, 2024
He is also open to continuing in a bench/utility role, either with the Cardinals or another team.
There is indeed a possibility that St. Louis brings him back for another year. Especially given the rumors of a trade for current third baseman Nolan Arenado. This would likely move struggling top prospect Nolan Gorman to third base and open up space for Gold-Glover Brendan Donovan at second. If Arenado is not traded, it is likely that the infield innings will be eaten up by a combination of these two players and emergent youngster Alec Burleson.
Carpenter, through 59 games in 2024, slashed .234/.372/.314 with only four HR and 15 RBI. Although he struggled offensively, another team could look to bring in a veteran presence to their bench with the capability to take over periodic DH and infield responsibilities.
If he plays in 2025, it is likely that he will receive another league minimum contract.
However, it is equally likely that we have seen the end of Carpenter’s major league career. As the demands on an offensive player heighten in the modern game. It will become increasingly difficult for Carpenter to perform at a level that is worthy of a roster spot.
He has begun making appearances as a guest analyst on MLB Network and has appeared on the St. Louis Post Dispatch Cardinals podcast as a guest. Signaling his intent to remain involved in baseball after the close of his career.
Main Photo Credits: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
