Alec Burleson Expressed Interest in Cardinals Extension
The St. Louis first baseman has voiced an openness to securing a long-term deal with the team.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Baseball
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St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Alec Burleson has confirmed his interest in signing a contract extension with the organization. Burleson, who is currently in his first year of arbitration eligibility, remains under team control for two more seasons.
Why it matters
Burleson has emerged as a key offensive contributor for St. Louis, leading Major League Baseball with 113 runs batted in. His desire to remain with the club marks a significant development as the team balances roster continuity against potential long-term commitments.
Burleson posted a .279/.343/.464 batting line during the 2026 season while earning a $3.3 million salary. His 113 RBIs lead the league, surpassing the 110 RBI totals recorded by both Sal Stewart and Pete Alonso.
The players
Alec Burleson
He is a 27-year-old first baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals who currently leads Major League Baseball in runs batted in.
St. Louis Cardinals
This professional baseball franchise competes in the National League Central division of Major League Baseball.
The details
Although Burleson has communicated his willingness to stay in St. Louis, the franchise has not formally approached him regarding an extension. The 27-year-old first baseman is under team control through the 2027 season and is expected to see his salary increase through arbitration.
Timeline
The 2026 season represents Burleson's first year of arbitration eligibility.
Winter 2026 may involve a potential lockout period.
The 2027 season serves as the final year of team control.
Burleson is projected to become a free agent in the 2028-29 offseason.
Season Trajectory
This development highlights the standard rhythm of the Major League Baseball arbitration process, where productive players seek stability before reaching unrestricted free agency. Securing Burleson would solidify the Cardinals' infield core as they look to maintain competitive balance in the coming years.
Burleson's league-leading 113 RBIs provide significant value for fantasy rosters and the team's offensive output for the remainder of the season. His salary trajectory through arbitration will directly impact the Cardinals' available payroll space for other roster improvements.
The takeaway
Burleson remains focused on his current on-field production despite the uncertainty surrounding his long-term contract status. Fans should monitor his salary arbitration outcomes this winter as a key indicator of his future tenure in St. Louis.
Further reading
For more on the team's roster moves, visit St. Louis Baseball.
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