By Andrew Parker | May 2, 2025
The St. Louis Cardinals may have found an unlikely cornerstone for their future — and he wasn’t selected in the early rounds of the 2024 MLB Draft.
Sixth-round pick Josh Kross has burst onto the scene in 2025 with a performance that’s turned heads throughout the organization. Splitting time between catcher and first base for Low-A Palm Beach, the 22-year-old is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about hitters in the system.
Kross is off to a red-hot start, slashing his way to a 1.048 OPS through 19 games while collecting 6 home runs, 29 RBIs, 6 doubles, and 2 triples. His breakout included a Player of the Week award and a rare cycle, further solidifying his early-season dominance.
“I’m not chasing pitches that’ll get me into trouble,” Kross told Redbird Rants. “I’m focused on attacking the ones I know I can drive. That confidence is helping me start strong and will carry me through the long season.”
While Kross was originally drafted as a catcher, his time at first base has sparked intrigue. With the Cardinals already boasting four catching prospects in their top 30, Kross may find a clearer path to the majors at first — a position that has lacked a long-term answer since Paul Goldschmidt’s peak.
His work ethic and preparation are evident. After a short debut last season, Kross entered 2025 prepared both mentally and physically.
“I spent the offseason building strength and sticking to a routine,” he said. “Staying consistent was key so I could come back and hit with authority. And this year, I’m making sure my glove doesn’t fall behind.”
Kross understands that the season is a grind, but he’s embraced the challenge. His mature approach — on and off the field — is part of why he’s viewed as more than just a fast starter.
With nearly 200 plate appearances on the horizon, a promotion to High-A Peoria seems inevitable. And if his production continues, he could soon force his way into the conversation as the Cardinals’ long-term answer at first base.
What began as a modest sixth-round selection is quickly evolving into something more: the Cardinals’ unexpected solution at one of baseball’s most vital positions.
