Dustin May has long been considered one of baseball’s most talented power pitchers. Known for his blazing fastball and distinctive red hair, the right-handed starter has battled through multiple injuries while showcasing elite potential throughout his MLB career. Now pitching for the St. Louis Cardinals, May continues to be a player to watch during the 2026 season.
Dustin May Stats
May debuted in Major League Baseball with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2019 and quickly earned attention for his velocity and movement. Across his MLB career, he has compiled a winning record while striking out hitters at an impressive rate. Baseball Reference lists him with more than 80 career appearances and a career ERA under 4.00 entering the 2026 campaign.
For the 2026 season, May has continued to contribute as a starting pitcher. Recent statistics show him with a mid-4.00 ERA, over 60 strikeouts, and a WHIP near 1.30.
Dustin May MLB Journey
The Dodgers selected May in the third round of the 2016 MLB Draft. He progressed through the organization’s farm system before making his major league debut against the San Diego Padres in August 2019.
During his early years with Los Angeles, May became known for:
- Elite sinker velocity
- High strikeout potential
- Strong ground-ball rates
- Postseason experience with the Dodgers
His development was interrupted by several major injuries, but scouts and analysts have consistently viewed him as a frontline starter when healthy.
Dustin May Contract
Following the 2025 season, May signed a one-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals that includes a mutual option for 2027. The deal provided the Cardinals with an experienced starter while giving May an opportunity to re-establish his value in free agency.
According to contract data, the agreement is worth approximately $12.5 million with a mutual option and buyout structure for 2027.
Dustin May Salary
For the 2026 season, May is earning a base salary of approximately $12 million under his Cardinals contract. His average annual value is reported at $12.5 million.
The salary reflects both his proven talent and the injury risk that has followed him throughout his career. If he remains healthy and productive, he could position himself for a larger long-term contract in future free agency.
Dustin May Injury History
Injuries have been the biggest obstacle in May’s career. His notable setbacks include:
- Tommy John surgery in 2021 after suffering a UCL tear.
- A right flexor tendon injury and Tommy John revision surgery in 2023.
- An esophageal tear that ended his 2024 comeback attempt.
- Additional elbow and back-related issues during previous seasons.
Despite these setbacks, May has repeatedly returned to major league action and regained much of his trademark velocity. Analysts have highlighted the resurgence of his fastball during the 2026 season.
Dustin May vs Padres
May has faced the San Diego Padres numerous times throughout his career dating back to his MLB debut. He has often matched up against one of the National League’s strongest lineups and has delivered several memorable performances, including dominant outings featuring high strikeout totals.
His heavy sinker and sharp breaking pitches have generally matched up well against the Padres’ aggressive hitters. Fans continue to monitor his performances whenever he takes the mound against San Diego.
Dustin May Today
As of June 2026, Dustin May remains a key member of the Cardinals’ pitching staff. Recent reports indicate he has been one of the club’s more important starters while showing improved velocity and effectiveness compared to previous injury-plagued seasons.
With his health improving and his arsenal returning to form, May is once again demonstrating why many evaluators believed he possessed ace-level potential earlier in his career. If he can stay on the field, the remainder of the 2026 season could be one of the most important stretches of his professional journey.
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