Cardinals shake up bullpen with Graceffo recall amid early struggles
The St. Louis Cardinals have made early moves to address their struggling bullpen. After a rough start to the 2026 season, the team recalled pitcher Gordon Graceffo from the minors. Meanwhile, Rule 5 draft pick Matt Pushard has been sidelined by injury just days into the campaign. The Cardinals' bullpen has faced major difficulties in the first four games of 2026, posting a 7.94 ERA. In response, the club called up Gordon Graceffo, a former top prospect in their system. His return follows a mixed 2025 season, where he recorded a 6.28 ERA across 43 innings.
Graceffo spent much of the off-season with Team Italy at the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He arrived at spring training in strong form, allowing no runs in two appearances. The Cardinals plan to use him in low-pressure situations or as a long reliever to start the season. The team had also added Matt Pushard, selected from the Miami Marlins in the Rule 5 draft. However, his debut did not go well, as he gave up three runs in a single inning. Shortly after, Pushard was placed on the 15-day injured list with right knee patellar tendinitis.
With Graceffo back in the mix, the Cardinals hope to stabilise their bullpen. Pushard's injury leaves a gap, but the team will rely on Graceffo's experience to provide much-needed depth. The early struggles have forced St. Louis to adjust quickly as the season unfolds.
