The St. Louis Cardinals have once again called up Cuban infielder César Prieto from Triple-A Memphis, marking his third stint in the Major Leagues during the 2026 season.
According to sports journalist Francys Romero, this move was necessitated by shortstop JJ Wetherholt being placed on the 10-day injured list due to right wrist tendinitis. Wetherholt, a standout rookie prospect, landed on the IL after a hitless game on Saturday. Despite that, his season stats include a .242 batting average, 17 home runs, 48 RBIs, and 88 runs scored.
From Cienfuegos to the Major League Spotlight
Born in Cienfuegos on May 10, 1999, Prieto has struggled in the big leagues this year, managing only two hits in 31 at-bats for a batting average of .065, with no home runs or RBIs. However, his performance in Triple-A Memphis paints a different picture.
In 79 games with Memphis, Prieto has been a force at the plate, boasting a .308 batting average, 12 home runs, and 43 RBIs. His slash line of .308/.367/.505 ranks him among the top hitters in the league, highlighting the stark contrast between his minor and major league performances.
A Roller Coaster Season
This latest call-up follows Prieto's previous two appearances with the Cardinals this season. His first opportunity came on May 4, when the team needed him to fill in for Lars Nootbaar. The second came on August 4, again due to Nootbaar's absence. After a lackluster offensive performance, Prieto was sent back to Memphis on August 14, only to be recalled once more just two weeks later.
Prieto's journey to the MLB began with his defection from the Cuban national team in May 2021, with aspirations of playing in the big leagues. He joined the Cardinals' system in August 2023 as part of a trade involving pitcher Jack Flaherty to Baltimore. Prieto made his MLB debut on August 29, 2025, against the Cincinnati Reds, becoming the 33rd Cuban-born player to appear in a Major League regular season game.
High Hopes and Big Dreams
In Cuba's National Series, where Prieto honed his skills from the age of 18, he posted an impressive .365 average over 247 games, showcasing the talent that later shone in the U.S. minor leagues. This third chance in one season presents Prieto with another opportunity to prove he can elevate his Triple-A success to the highest level of professional baseball.
Understanding César Prieto's MLB Journey
Why was César Prieto called up to the MLB again?
Prieto was called up due to JJ Wetherholt's placement on the 10-day injured list because of right wrist tendinitis.
How has César Prieto performed in Triple-A Memphis?
In Triple-A Memphis, Prieto has excelled with a .308 batting average, 12 home runs, and 43 RBIs over 79 games.
What challenges has Prieto faced in the MLB?
Prieto has struggled in the MLB, registering only two hits in 31 at-bats, which translates to a .065 batting average.