The Cardinals to Promote Alec Burleson; Dylan Carlson to IL

The Cardinals have announced a series of roster moves in the outfield today.

Dylan Carlson is headed to the 10-day IL with a left thumb sprain. He’s been out of the lineup for a few days and his recent production has been a little lacking; this injury could explain both.

To replace him on the active roster, the Cardinals are purchasing the contract of Alec Burleson. Burleson has had a great season at Memphis, where he’s slashed .331/.372/.532 this season with 20 homers; he was also the Cardinals Player of the Month for May. Burleson (who I profiled earlier in the season) profiles as a corner outfielder, so Tyler O’Neill will see most of the time in center, with Ben DeLuzio getting a few starts.

To clear a spot for Burleson on the 40-man roster, the Cardinals have designated Conner Capel for assignment. Capel struggled to a .176/.211/.353 slash line in 17 at bats for the Cardinals with a 59 OPS+. He’s been better at Memphis, where he slashed .258/.361/.425 with 10 homers. He doesn’t look to be a part of the Cardinals’ outfield plans at this point.