Cardinals Release Brandon Crawford, Reinstate Matt Carpenter From IL
Cardinals Release Brandon Crawford, Reinstate Matt Carpenter From IL
ST. LOUIS, Mo. - The St. Louis Cardinals have released infielder Brandon Crawford and have reinstated Matt Carpenter from the injured list, according to an announcement from the team's general manager, John Mozeliak.
Crawford Released
Crawford, 36, was signed to a minor league contract by the Cardinals in November 2022 and had been competing for a spot on the team's Opening Day roster. However, he struggled in spring training, batting .188 with no home runs and 10 strikeouts in 22 at-bats.
“We appreciate Brandon's contributions to the organization and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” Mozeliak said in a statement.
Carpenter Returns
Carpenter, 37, has been on the injured list since March 11 with a back injury. He has been rehabbing at the team's spring training complex in Jupiter, Florida, and has been progressing well.
"Matt has been working hard to get back on the field, and we're excited to have him back," Mozeliak said. "He's a valuable asset to our team both offensively and defensively."
Looking Ahead
The Cardinals now have 26 players on their active roster, including 13 pitchers. Carpenter is expected to start at third base on Opening Day, with Paul Goldschmidt moving to first base and Nolan Arenado staying at second base.
The Cardinals open their season on Thursday, March 30, against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Busch Stadium.