Carlson received an invitation to big-league camp Friday.

EDGE Analysis

Carlson is still just 21 years old, but he could be given legitimate consideration for an Opening Day roster spot. The Cardinals can certainly play service-time games with him, as he's only appeared in 18 games at the Triple-A level, but his .292/.372/.542 slash line at the two highest levels of the minors last season suggests he's very close to big-league ready.