Cooper Hjerpe Set for MLB Debut with Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals have announced the promotion of left-handed pitcher Cooper Hjerpe from Triple-A Memphis, marking his major league debut scheduled for Sunday against the Rockies.

Hjerpe, 25, was selected 22nd overall in the 2022 draft and has faced challenges with control and injuries during his career. He recorded a 3.37 ERA with a 32.8% strikeout rate in 93 1/3 innings across High-A and Double-A before undergoing Tommy John surgery last year. After being added to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft, he has since posted a 3.00 ERA in 42 innings at various levels, including an impressive 0.95 ERA in his first 19 innings at Triple-A.

In a corresponding move, the Cardinals optioned right-handed pitcher Hancel Rincón back to Memphis after he struggled in his initial appearances. Rincón's debut was marked by a controversial incident involving his cap, which led to the ejection of Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol.