The St. Louis Cardinals have spent much of the 2026 season searching for consistent production behind the plate, and one of their young catchers continues to make a compelling argument that he deserves an extended look. Jimmy Crooks wasn't expected to open the season in the majors after beginning the year at Triple-A Memphis, but the former fourth-round draft pick has continued to work his way into the conversation whenever the Cardinals have needed catching depth. While his overall offensive numbers remain a work in progress, the organization still believes the 24-year-old possesses the tools that made him one of the club's top prospects.For a Cardinals team trying to balance competing now with developing its next core, Crooks represents an intriguing piece of the future.Jimmy Crooks has