BREAKING: Cardinals Make Big Decision on Lights Out Triple-A Reliever
The St. Louis Cardinals announced Tuesday that reliever Matt Svanson, a 2024 Texas League All-Star, has been recalled from Triple-A Memphis. In a corresponding move, right-hander Roddery Muñoz was optioned back to Memphis after allowing three runs over 2 2/3 innings in three appearances since his call-up.
Svanson joined the Cardinals in 2023 as part of the trade that sent Paul DeJong to the Toronto Blue Jays. This season, he’s posted a 1.59 ERA in four relief outings with Memphis. The 26-year-old was dominant for Double-A Springfield in 2023, acting as the team’s full-time closer. He converted all 27 of his save opportunities—leading the Texas League—and gave up only 19 earned runs in 63 2/3 innings (2.69 ERA).
A two-time All-Star and former 13th-round pick, Svanson has compiled a 2.98 ERA over 220 2/3 innings across more than four minor league seasons, with 43 saves in 45 chances over 137 games. He was the sole return in the DeJong trade, making his debut a tangible reflection of that deal. Since then, DeJong has bounced around several teams—Blue Jays, Giants, White Sox, Royals, and now the Nationals—while Svanson steadily rose through the Cardinals’ system.
According to MLB.com’s John Denton, Svanson learned of his promotion during the eighth inning of Memphis’ game last night and will have four family members present for his potential MLB debut. He was added to the Cardinals’ 40-man roster this past offseason, making him a convenient option to bolster the bullpen.