Rays Acquire Former Top Prospect In 1-For-1 Trade With Cardinals

The Tampa Bay Rays have acquired former top outfield prospect Dylan Carlson from the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for right-handed pitcher Shawn Armstrong. 

Carlson, once a highly touted first-round draft pick by St. Louis in 2016, has seen his performance decline in recent years due to a series of injuries and inconsistent playing time. 

Following his standout 2021 season, where he batted .266 with 18 home runs, Carlson has struggled significantly, hitting just .198 with no home runs and 11 RBIs in 59 games this season after missing the start due to a shoulder injury.

The Tampa Bay Rays are acquiring Dylan Carlson, source tells ESPN.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 30, 2024

Carlson's career with the Cardinals has been marred by various setbacks, including hamstring, thumb, and ankle injuries, which have limited him to 204 games out of a possible 324 over the past two seasons. 

Despite his defensive versatility and switch-hitting ability, his offensive decline and the crowded Cardinals' outfield led to persistent trade speculation. 

With a career batting average of .239 and 34 home runs over 447 games, Carlson will now look for a fresh start with the Rays, who have a knack for maximizing the potential of versatile players. 

Tampa Bay, in need of outfield depth, especially after trading Randy Arozarena, sees potential in Carlson's underlying metrics despite his recent struggles.

Thank you, Dylan Carlson👏

This has to be one of my favorite Carlson moments. What is your favorite DC3 moment? pic.twitter.com/5lhh19USZe

— Cardinals Talk (@theredbird_way) July 30, 2024

In return, the Cardinals receive veteran reliever Shawn Armstrong, who has posted a 5.40 ERA over 38 appearances this season. 

Armstrong, 33, offers bullpen depth and brings experience from his stints with multiple MLB teams, including the Cleveland Guardians, Seattle Mariners, Baltimore Orioles, Miami Marlins, and Rays. 

As a rental player, Armstrong provides immediate bullpen support for the Cardinals, while Carlson gets an opportunity to revive his career in Tampa Bay, with the Rays having ample time to evaluate his long-term fit under arbitration control through the 2026 season.

Photo Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports