The St. Louis Cardinals added catching prospect Jimmy Crooks and outfielder Nelson Velazquez to their roster from Triple-A Memphis on Friday, ahead of a three-game series with the Chicago Cubs. The moves came at the expense of Yohel Pozo and Cesar Prieto, who were optioned back to the minors.

Crooks, 24, posted a .262 average with 13 home runs and 29 RBIs across 39 games for Memphis this season. Despite limited action in his late-season debut last year (.133 in 15 games), the organization clearly values his development. He now joins Ivan Herrera and Pedro Pages as the third catcher on the roster.

Manager Oliver Marmol confirmed Crooks will receive meaningful playing time behind the plate. 'He's definitely here to play,' Marmol said, noting the prospect will handle 'a decent amount of catching.' This signals the Cardinals view Crooks as more than roster depth.

Velazquez contributed seven homers and 22 RBIs in 40 Triple-A games, while showing promise this spring with a .357 average and four homers in 15 exhibition contests. Both players arrive as St. Louis looks to strengthen its roster depth for the season ahead.

The promotions reflect St. Louis' confidence in their young talent pipeline, particularly behind the plate where catching depth matters for a team competing in the National League Central.