Strategies for the Cardinals to maintain their momentum amidst a demanding upcoming schedule
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The St. Louis Cardinals face a grueling 28 games in 29 days starting today, and it's crucial they navigate this stretch strategically to avoid burnout. Although the club's performance has tampered slightly over the last week, it's essential to remain optimistic. The Cardinals have proven their potential this season, and a strong June is vital to maintaining playoff hopes.
While the schedule seems to lighten up this month, the sheer number of games could wear down the players if they aren't cautious. So, here are three critical factors for the Cardinals to uphold the positive vibes during this tough phase.
Return to the Six-Man Rotation, but with a Twist
The Cardinals did well to maintain their pitchers' health and performance with a six-man rotation in April. However, the June challenge is even more rigorous, warranting a similar approach but with a tweak.
However, Stephen Matz shouldn't be the starter added to the rotation. Instead, Michael McGreevy should step up.
Given the Cardinals' bullpen's dependability, it's imperative they hold onto Matz. He's been a versatile asset this season, performing in high-leverage spots, multi-inning relief, and spot starts. With a 2.16 ERA in 33.1 innings, Matz has been a vital cog in the Cardinals' machine.
The bullpen would thrive best with him fully committed to it, reducing his spot-start responsibilities and easing the burden on manager Oliver Marmol. Moreover, McGreevy offers an excellent alternative.
In Memphis this season, McGreevy has ranked with a 3.02 ERA across 10 starts and 50.2 innings, striking out 54 batters. McGreevy's proven himself beyond the minor leagues, and the Cardinals would do well to induct him into their rotation promptly.
McGreevy pitched for the Cardinals in one game this year, conceding only one hit and one walk in 5.2 innings against the New York Mets. With a career big league ERA of 1.57, he's a promising addition. Although anticipations shouldn't escalate, the Cardinals should observe McGreevy closely during his initial stint in the majors.
If McGreevy gets introduced into the rotation right at the first turn this month, he could grab either four or five starts during this grueling stretch. If he doesn't fit the rotation picture, the Cardinals can send him back to Triple-A and wait for his permanent calling.
Injuries may pave the way for McGreevy's entry at some point, or underperformance may force the Cardinals' hand. However, the ideal situation is for everyone to remain healthy, perform well, and leave the Cardinals with a complex, welcome dilemma in July.
- To ensure the Cardinals maintain their performance during the challenging June schedule, they should consider adding Michael McGreevy to their rotation instead of Stephen Matz, taking advantage of McGreevy's sterling Minor League record of a 3.02 ERA across 10 starts this season, and his impressive big league debut against the New York Mets.
- With McGreevy's potential introduction into the rotation, the Cardinals could benefit from adding four or five starts to their roster during this grueling 28 games in 29 days stretch, providing an extra boost to their MLB baseball season.
