St. Louis Cardinals Evaluate Extension Options for Alec Burleson

As Alec Burleson enters his second year of arbitration eligibility, the St. Louis Cardinals face crucial decisions regarding a potential arbitration-avoiding extension. Entering his age-28 season, Burleson has established himself as a key hitter but carries heavy platoon splits against left-handed pitching, finishing 2026 with an OPS of 51 against LHP. Analysts project a potential three-year deal around $36 million could lock him in through his age-31 season before free agency.