The Cardinals spent the offseason hunting for a right-handed bat to bolster their outfield, eyeing players like Austin Hays, Miguel Andujar, and familiar face Harrison Bader. However, no deals materialized.
The challenge? Convincing veterans to join a roster where playing time wasn't guaranteed, especially with Lars Nootbaar on the mend from heel surgery.
Once he's back, Nootbaar will rejoin a dynamic outfield featuring defensive whiz Victor Scott II in center and former top prospect Jordan Walker in right.
For veterans like Hays and Andujar, the potential lack of playing time was a deal-breaker as they sought to secure future multi-year contracts. But for players open to non-roster opportunities, the landscape was different. Enter Nelson Velázquez, who has practically secured a spot on the Opening Day roster.
Velázquez has been on a tear this spring, hitting four home runs in 39 plate appearances with an impressive .333/.436/.727 slash line. His performance in the Puerto Rican Winter League was solid too, showcasing his potential with a .277/.377/.423 line.
Over parts of three major league seasons with the Cubs and Royals, Velázquez has shown power, belting 31 home runs in 615 plate appearances, though his .212/.286/.433 line and 28.8% strikeout rate have been hurdles. His approach at the plate isn’t poor; he walks at an above-average rate and doesn’t chase pitches excessively. However, his contact rate on pitches over the plate is below average.
Recently, Velázquez has made strides in reducing his strikeout rate and increasing his walk rate, both in winter ball and Triple-A. While his spring numbers might not be sustainable, even modest improvements in his contact ability could establish him as a power hitter. With no minor league options left, Velázquez is poised for a significant opportunity, especially since he’s controllable for five more seasons via arbitration.
Another player making waves is outfielder Nathan Church. The 25-year-old lefty has impressed this spring with a .286/.412/.429 line.
Church could find himself in a platoon role in left field or as a versatile fourth outfielder, capable of handling all three positions. Last year, he showcased his defensive skills with four Outs Above Average and five Defensive Runs Saved in limited big league action.
Despite a tough stint in the majors last year, hitting just .179/.254/.250, Church excelled in the minors, boasting a .329/.386/.524 line with 13 homers and 16 steals. Manager Oli Marmol noted Church’s improved demeanor and mechanical adjustments, which have enhanced his consistency.
Nolan Gorman is also seeking consistency. A former first-round pick, Gorman has shown flashes of power but hasn’t yet cemented himself as a regular starter.
With Nolan Arenado and Brendan Donovan no longer blocking his path, Gorman has a clearer shot at playing time. His strikeout issues have been significant, with a 34% rate over his career.
This offseason, Gorman worked with a private hitting instructor, making mechanical tweaks to improve his swing. While spring stats are a small sample, Gorman’s .250/.351/.625 line with three homers and reduced strikeouts offers hope. As he enters a pivotal year, Gorman has the chance to secure his spot, with more consistent playing time at third base.