Track Record:

Cabrera signed with the Rays for $34,000 in 2013 and quickly surpassed his peers who signed for more. He skipped over the Gulf Coast League at 18 and reached Double-A by age 20 while touching 97 mph with his fastball. The Cardinals, facing an organizational need for lefthanders with velocity, acquired Cabrera with fellow prospects Justin Williams and Roel Ramirez in exchange for outfielder Tommy Pham at the 2018 trade deadline.

Scouting Report: Cabrera is an athletic lefty with power stuff but below-average control due to a violent delivery. His plus-plus fastball sits 94-96 mph, touching 98 mph, and he holds his velocity deep into starts. His short, upper-80s slider has above-average potential, and his third pitch is a firm, upper-80s changeup with solid depth and late fade that plays well off his fastball. He also has a curveball he shows feel to spin, though it's inconsistent because he cuts it off. Because of his delivery, Cabrera struggles to repeat his arm slot and locate consistently, especially with his secondary pitches. He also gets too cocky at times, resulting in poor pitch selection and overthrowing.

The Future: Cabrera reminds many of Pirates closer Felipe Vasquez with his power stuff but questionable control from the left side. The Cardinals plan to keep Cabrera as a starting pitcher at Tripe-A Memphis, but they won't hesitate to call him up in relief, if needed.