When you go to a Springfield Cardinals game, don’t be surprised if you see Noah Mendlinger looking at you. “I come out every day and I just kind of admire the stadium,” said Menlinger. “Look at some of the empty seats, some of the filled seats. And try to take it all in pregame.”
Mendlinger’s appreciation comes from a humble place. He was never recruited by a Division I school. And he was never drafted by a major league team. Now he’s two callups away from the major leagues. “I never really imagined playing in a stadium like this,” he said. “In front of fans like this. It’s surreal.”
Mendlinger received the promotion from High-A ball on May 9, and was named Texas League player of the week in just his third week with the Cardinals, batting over .400 in that time. “That was an awesome accolade,” Mendlinger said. “Awesome acknowledgement. I’m just kind of glad to be where I am.”
He and his manager Jose Leger share the alma mater of Georgia college, and mentality that comes from being overlooked. “I relate to that because I was the same way,” said Leger. “I went undrafted and signed as a free agent. When that happens you have only one choice. Make sure everything you do you do it right, you do it with a passion and that you enjoy every moment and every opportunity that is given to you.”
Mendlinger has played nearly every position in the field for the team as he takes his manager’s words to heart. “I’m just trying to enjoy every day of it, really,” Mendlinger said. “It can be a grind no doubt. The minor leagues isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. But making sure you come out with a good mindset and mentality is just the biggest thing. And just try and enjoy it.”
And the Springfield Cardinals are certainly enjoying the spark he’s given them.
