CINCINNATI — A move the Cardinals considered toward the end of spring training they'll make just in time for a former top prospect to face his former team — and perhaps boost the lineup's production from the right side.
Shortstop and center fielder Jose Barrero has been added to the Cardinals' active roster ahead of their four-game series against Cincinnati, the team that signed Barrero, touted the athletic Barrero as their No. 1 prospect, and debuted Barrero in the majors. The Cardinals signed him as a minor-league free agent this past November, and he made strides during spring training by improving upon what kept him from sticking in the majors with the Reds.
He reduced his all-or-nothing approach at the plate while also showing his clear nimbleness at important and demanding defensive positions.
The Cardinals added Barrero officially to the roster Monday afternoon by purchasing his contract from their minor-league affiliate.
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To make room on the active roster, the Cardinals returned infielder Thomas Saggese to Class AAA Memphis, where he'll be a priority, everyday player. The Cardinals also had to open a spot on the 40-player roster for Barrero, and they did so by designated reliever Ryan Loutos for assignment. If another team does not claim Loutos or attempt to trade for the right-hander the Cardinals can keep him in the organization in the Triple-A bullpen.
Barrero was a top 100 prospects in professional baseball according to the trade publications, and entering 2022 he was rated as the Reds' No. 1 prospect.
Barrero arrives to the majors on a nine-game hitting streak, and he's reached base safely in 18 games.
The Cardinals' selection of Barrero suggests they expect the right-handed hitter to be with them for awhile because he is out of options, and returning him to the minors would expose him to waivers and give other teams a chance to snag a strong defensive player with power upside.Â
Barrero, 27, has hit a couple of mammoth home runs for Memphis. In 87 at-bats, this season for the Redbirds, he's hit .299 with a .396 on-base percentage and a .517 slugging percentage for a .913 OPS. He has 10 extra-base hits, four home runs, and he's 5-for-6 in stolen base attempts. He does have more strikeouts (27) than hits (26).
While an obvious backup for Masyn Winn at shortstop, Barrero also presents a right-handed option in center fielder, which the Cardinals have not had this season.
Barrero will wear No. 27.Â
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