Martínez activated, Carlson optioned as Cardinals make flurry of transactions

ST. LOUIS — Carlos Martínez is back and Dylan Carlson is off the major league roster as the Cardinals get ready for a doubleheader with the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday.

The team announced prior to the twin bill that it has activated Martínez from the injured list, optioned Carlson to its alternate training site in Springfield, Mo. and recalled right-hander Daniel Ponce de Leon to serve as the 29th man and start Game 2 of the doubleheader. To make room for Martínez, who was exempt from the 40-man roster while recovering from COVID-19, right-hander Ryan Meisinger was designated for assignment.

Martínez made just one start this year, July 28 at Minnesota, before testing positive for the coronavirus. Over 3 2/3 innings, he allowed six earned runs on seven hits and a walk.

Carlson, ranked as the club’s top prospect by MLB Pipeline, hit .162 with a .458 OPS and one homer over his first 23 games in the major leagues. His playing time had been more limited recently, and it appears likely that the club will split outfield playing time among Tyler O’Neill, Harrison Bader, Lane Thomas and Tommy Edman for the immediate future.

Ponce de Leon has pitched in five games for the Cardinals this year, starting four. He has a 7.82 ERA with 17 strikeouts and 14 walks over 12 2/3 innings.

Meisinger has made two scoreless relief appearances for the major league club this season. Over 2 2/3 innings, he has allowed one hit and four walks while striking out three.