The St. Louis Cardinals are on the verge of a significant roster upgrade as their young star outfielder begins a rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis. After being sidelined by an appendicitis scare earlier in the week, the outfielder’s quick recovery has sparked optimism for an immediate return.
Team officials confirmed he avoided surgery, instead recovering through antibiotics after experiencing discomfort during pregame warmups. The medical staff’s quick diagnosis and treatment allowed for a faster-than-expected turnaround. Now, the focus shifts to sharpening his timing and getting back into game shape through minor league action.
His return couldn’t come at a better time for the Cardinals, who sit just 3.5 games behind the Cubs in a tightly contested NL Central race. While his first-half stats were underwhelming, batting just .210 with three home runs and 23 RBIs in 54 games, his raw potential and high ceiling remain major assets.
With other outfielders stepping up in his absence, the lineup still lacks the explosiveness and upside he brings when healthy. Statcast data continues to support the idea that better results are coming. A strong finish to the season could swing momentum in St. Louis’ favor—especially as the trade deadline looms.
This rehab stint will be watched closely by the Cardinals’ front office. A quick turnaround at the Triple-A level could mean a return to MLB action in early July, just in time for a string of critical matchups. The team hopes his presence will inject life into a lineup that has struggled to find consistency.
As the playoff race intensifies, St. Louis may not need to look far for reinforcements. If the outfielder can rediscover his rhythm and stay healthy, he could be the spark that propels the Cardinals back into serious postseason contention—and reestablishes his place as a franchise building block.
