There aren't a lot of expectations for the St. Louis Cardinals to compete this season due to the team's active rebuild that's still ongoing.

The Cardinals' roster is comprised mostly of young players or veterans on cheap short-term deals. Several of the vets were signed to potentially flip for more trade assets in the future.

St. Louis is looking toward the future but the team is still looking to cover its bases for 2026.

The Cardinals are "hunting" for a right-handed outfielder, according to quotes made by president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom, in an article written by St. Louis Dispatch writer Derrick Goold.

Until St. Louis finds that player, of if its unable to, it seems like that role will go to a player that's exclusively been an infielder in his major league career thus far.

According to Goold's article, Thomas Saggese is expected to take reps at the corner outfield positions and possibly center field. According to the story, Saggese hasn't played in the outfield since he was 10-years-old.

Second baseman Jose Fermin will also get a look at the outfield, according to Goold.

"The possibility (of Saggese) is intriguing out there," Bloom said in Goold's article. "Fermin, certainly. This is a guy who puts together a pretty good at-bat, knows the strike zone and competes at the plate. There’s probably some opportunity for him to impact us at other positions than he has. Historically, this is a good time to look at that. Certainly, him. In general, you don’t want to be too cavalier with this. There are benefits to adding versatility to guys. We’ve been a little more aggressive in the minor leagues. I expect that will continue. You obviously don’t want to necessarily do it for the first time in big league camp if you can avoid that. But there are certain opportunities if you feel it can really impact what (manager Oli Marmol) has at his disposal starting March 26."

Fermin is more experienced in the outfield than Saggese but not by much. The former has logged 17 career innings in the majors in left field and eight innings in right.

Neither player has lengthy experience in the major leagues. Saggese, who debuted in 2024, has 100 games under his belt. Fermin debuted in 2023 and has suited up for 96 games in big leagues.

However, both are coming off career years despite their limited action.

Saggese slashed .253/.299/.342 with a .641 OPS and hit 17 doubles and two home runs with 25 RBIs in 82 games last season.

Fermin finished '25 with a slash line of .283/.377/.417 with a .794 OPS in 30 games. He hit five doubles and a homer with nine RBIs.

A part of rebuilding for any team includes being able to get creative and finding unique ways to get pieces to fit. The Cardinals have been successful in gaining assets with potential. If St. Louis is able to find creative ways for several players already in the majors to contribute to the team in a positive way, then the rebuild could find itself ahead of schedule.

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