Five Players Who Could Earn Spots on the Cardinals’ 40-Man Roster in 2026

One reality of every Major League Baseball season is that no team survives all 162 games without relying on organizational depth. Injuries, slumps, and roster adjustments force clubs to cycle through players throughout the year, and the St. Louis Cardinals will be no different in 2026.

Although this season was initially viewed as more of an evaluation year focused on developing younger talent, the Cardinals have outperformed expectations early and already notched their 20th win by May 2. With the front office unlikely to make major additions at the trade deadline, St. Louis may need internal reinforcements if it hopes to remain competitive deeper into the season.

Several players already occupy spots on the 40-man roster, but there are still intriguing names outside that group who could make their way to St. Louis this year. Here are five players pushing for their opportunity.

Blaze Jordan – Corner Infielder

Blaze Jordan has emerged as one of the most productive hitters in the Cardinals’ minor league system and is making a strong case for promotion. Through the opening stretch of 2026, Jordan is slashing .308/.357/.561 with a .918 OPS, 136 wRC+, and .253 ISO.

His offensive profile is built around consistent contact and legitimate power. Jordan has shown the ability to hit for average while driving the ball with authority, all without excessive strikeouts. While plate discipline is not his biggest strength and he rarely walks, his bat has been impactful enough that the Cardinals may soon have to find room for him if this production continues.

Quinn Matthews – Left-Handed Pitcher

After being named Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2024, Quinn Matthews has endured a challenging stretch over the past year. Command issues and adjustments to higher-level competition have slowed his progress, but there are signs he may be turning the corner.

Matthews has delivered improved performances in recent outings with Triple-A Memphis, and if he can continue reducing his walk rate, his strikeout ability could make him a valuable addition. The Cardinals’ pitching staff lacks swing-and-miss arms, and Matthews has the potential to fill that need if his command stabilizes.

Max Rajcic – Right-Handed Reliever

Max Rajcic has transitioned from starter to multi-inning reliever and could provide the Cardinals with bullpen versatility later this season. At 24 years old, Rajcic profiles as a dependable bridge arm capable of covering multiple innings.

His arsenal features several uniquely shaped pitches, though his fastball grades more as average than overpowering. Still, his versatility and ability to navigate lineups in extended relief could make him an attractive internal option for a Cardinals team searching for bullpen stability.

Hancel Rincon – Right-Handed Reliever

Another bullpen arm generating buzz is Hancel Rincon, who impressed during spring training and appears to be a pitcher the organization values highly.

Rincon’s standout pitch is his changeup, which has shown excellent effectiveness due to its low spin and deceptive movement. His fastball sits in the mid-90s and has produced strong results, though improving its shape and limiting hard contact remain development points. He also mixes in a slider that still needs refinement, but the overall package is promising enough that Rincon could emerge as a bullpen weapon later in the season.

Ramon Mendoza – Utility Infielder

Ramon Mendoza may not have eye-popping statistics, but he remains a realistic depth option if the Cardinals need right-handed bench help. His path to the roster likely depends on another infielder opening a spot, but the organization appears comfortable with what he offers.

Mendoza received regular opportunities during spring training and has earned the trust of the coaching staff. His defensive flexibility and right-handed bat make him a practical candidate if roster needs arise.

Final Thoughts

The Cardinals have more depth than many expected entering 2026, and their ability to maximize that depth could play a major role in determining how long their surprising start lasts. Whether through injuries, underperformance, or strategic promotions, these five players could all find themselves contributing in St. Louis before the season is over.