By Drew Koch | May 23, 2025
In a puzzling move ahead of their upcoming series against the Milwaukee Brewers, the St. Louis Cardinals made an unexpected roster decision that’s already stirring controversy among fans. While the return of ace Miles Mikolas from the injured list was expected, the surprise came when the Cardinals signed veteran utilityman Garrett Hampson to a major-league deal — and optioned Luken Baker back to Triple-A Memphis.
Hampson, recently released by the Arizona Diamondbacks after posting a weak .167/.359/.167 line with no extra-base hits in 18 games, now joins a Cardinals squad in desperate need of offensive production. Though Hampson can cover multiple defensive positions — including shortstop, second base, and center field — his bat has never been a reliable asset.
The decision to demote Baker, one of the few power threats on the bench, is raising questions across the Cardinals’ fanbase. Despite limited at-bats since rejoining the big-league club, Baker had shown flashes of the raw power the team sorely lacks, especially with Nolan Arenado and Tommy Edman both on the injured list.
To clear a 40-man roster spot for Hampson, St. Louis placed Andre Pallante on the 60-day injured list.
Oliver Marmol Stresses Flexibility Over Firepower
Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol defended the decision, pointing to the team’s recent string of injuries and the need for defensive flexibility. With Arenado, Edman, Dylan Carlson, and Brendan Donovan all sidelined, Marmol says the team needed a versatile glove who could step into multiple roles on short notice.
Still, the offensive downgrade is hard to ignore. Hampson’s career slash line of .239/.302/.358 and a wRC+ of 69 hardly inspire confidence — especially when compared to Baker’s ability to change games with one swing. As one NL scout reportedly said, “Even Nick Senzel is laughing at those numbers.”
Mikolas Returns, But Questions Remain
Meanwhile, Miles Mikolas will return to the mound for Friday’s series opener against Milwaukee after a short stint on the IL due to elbow soreness. His return comes at a crucial moment, with the Cardinals looking to bounce back from an embarrassing sweep at the hands of the Colorado Rockies.
Whether Hampson’s glove can outweigh Baker’s bat remains to be seen, but the move signals that the Cardinals are prioritizing defensive stability — even at the cost of offensive firepower.
Fans will be watching closely to see if the gamble pays off — or backfires.
