5 Things to Know About Cardinals Star Alec Burleson

St. Louis Cardinals fans have a lot to be excited about, and one of the biggest reasons is the consistent and powerful presence of outfielder and designated hitter Alec Burleson. Since breaking into the major leagues, Burleson has become a key component of the Cardinals’ lineup, known for his professional approach at the plate and his ability to deliver in clutch situations. But beyond the box score, there’s a fascinating story of a two-way college star who rapidly ascended through the minor leagues to carve out his role in the MLB. Here are five essential things every baseball fan should know about him.

1. A Two-Way Phenom in College

Before he was exclusively known for his bat, Alec Burleson was a dominant two-way player for the East Carolina Pirates. Excelling as both a pitcher and a first baseman/outfielder, he was a true force in the American Athletic Conference. His performance was so impressive that he was named a finalist for the John Olerud Award, given to the nation’s best two-way player, in both 2019 and 2020. This versatility showcased his incredible athleticism and deep understanding of the game from multiple perspectives.

His stats at ECU were remarkable:

• As a Hitter: He consistently posted a high batting average, finishing his college career with a .341 mark, along with significant power and RBI numbers.
• As a Pitcher: On the mound, he was a reliable left-hander, often serving as the team’s closer. He compiled a solid ERA and racked up saves, demonstrating poise under pressure.

This dual-threat capability made him a unique prospect. While the Cardinals ultimately drafted him for his hitting prowess, his background as a pitcher gives him a unique insight into reading pitchers and anticipating pitches—a skill that undoubtedly contributes to his success at the plate.

2. The Alec Burleson Draft Story and Rapid Minor League Ascent

The St. Louis Cardinals selected Alec Burleson in the second round (70th overall) of the 2020 MLB Draft. Due to the pandemic, the draft was shortened to just five rounds, making a second-round pick even more valuable. The Cardinals organization saw immense potential in his left-handed swing and decided to have him focus solely on hitting, a decision that paid off almost immediately. Burleson wasted no time proving them right, flying through the minor league system at an astonishing pace.

In 2021, his first full professional season, he played at three different levels, starting at High-A Peoria and ending at Triple-A Memphis. Across all three stops, he hit a combined .270 with 22 home runs and 76 RBIs. His ability to adjust quickly to higher levels of competition was a clear indicator that he was on the fast track to the majors. By 2022, he was a standout performer for the Memphis Redbirds, solidifying his status as one of the Cardinals’ top hitting prospects and earning his first MLB call-up late in the season.

3. A Pure Hitter’s Profile

What makes Alec Burleson a valuable asset to the Cardinals? It’s his bat. He is widely regarded as a pure hitter, with an innate ability to make contact and use the entire field. Unlike players who rely solely on home run power, Burleson’s approach is geared toward hitting for a high average and driving in runs. He has excellent hand-eye coordination and a compact, powerful swing that generates hard-hit balls.

Analysts often point to his low strikeout rates throughout his professional career as a key strength. He doesn’t chase pitches out of the zone and has a mature, two-strike approach that allows him to battle deep into counts. This plate discipline makes him a tough out and a reliable run producer, whether he’s serving as the designated hitter or playing in the outfield. For more detailed statistics on his major league performance, you can view his official player profile on the MLB official website.

4. Carving Out a Role on a Crowded Roster

Breaking into the St. Louis Cardinals lineup is no easy feat, especially in the outfield, which has often been crowded with established veterans and other high-profile prospects. However, Alec Burleson has successfully carved out a consistent role through sheer performance. His offensive production has made him indispensable, particularly against right-handed pitching.

His journey is a testament to his work ethic and focus. He has worked diligently on his defensive skills to become a more well-rounded player, capable of handling either corner outfield position adequately. While his bat is his calling card, his commitment to improving all facets of his game has earned him the trust of the coaching staff and a regular spot in the batting order. He represents the classic Cardinals model: a homegrown player who excels through fundamental skills and a high baseball IQ.

5. Future Outlook and Impact

Looking ahead, Alec Burleson projects to be a middle-of-the-order bat for the St. Louis Cardinals for years to come. As he continues to gain MLB experience, the expectation is that his power numbers will grow and he will evolve into an even more formidable offensive threat. His ability to hit for both average and power makes him a cornerstone of the team’s offensive philosophy.

He is more than just a stat line; he brings a steady, professional presence to the clubhouse. Teammates and coaches often praise his calm demeanor and consistent approach. In an era of baseball often dominated by the “three true outcomes” (home run, walk, or strikeout), Burleson is a throwback player who values contact, situational hitting, and simply getting on base. As the Cardinals build for the future, Alec Burleson is undoubtedly one of the key players they will be building around.