Three Cardinals Players Already Demonstrating Lack of Deserved Roster Spot Post-May 1st

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The 2025 season promises a patient approach for the St. Louis Cardinals, focusing on the growth of young talents like Nolan Gorman, Alec Burleson, Jordan Walker, Victor Scott II, Matthew Liberatore, and more. These players are under close scrutiny, given their likelihood of cementing their spot on the team.

However, the time for underperformance is dwindling. Certain players, such as Chris Roycroft, have shown early signs of potential demotion or removal from the roster. Others began the season with a short leash but haven't impressed manager Oli Marmol or president of baseball operations John Mozeliak.

Chris Roycroft's Struggles Lead to Demotion

Roycroft, who earned his spot on the Opening Day roster with an impressive Spring Training, found himself demoted to Triple-A Memphis. Although his sinker was once his most effective pitch, averaging 96 MPH with 1.5 inches of vertical break, it's now averaging a disappointing 94.1 MPH with 8.8 inches of induced vertical break. During his outing against the Boston Red Sox, Roycroft acknowledged the need for mechanical adjustments to return to his previous form.

Despite acknowledging the issues, Roycroft's performance on the mound remained dismal, with a 7.94 ERA through 5.2 innings and a .263 batting average against. Right-handed relievers like Roddery Munoz, Andre Granillo, and Riley O'Brien could potentially replace Roycroft as a dependable middle reliever.

Struggling Stayers:

Certain players on the current roster have already demonstrated their inability to sustain their spots beyond April. Here are three such Cardinals:

To be determined: Currently unnamed, this player has already shown signs of underperformance, raising questions about their continued presence on the team by the end of April.
Another Unfortunate Case: Performance has been lackluster for this player, who also started the season with a short leash. Continued poor showings might lead to the team reconsidering their roster status.
One more struggling performer: This Cardinal's form hasn't improved since the start of the season, putting their place on the roster at risk as the 2025 campaign progresses.

The demotion of Chris Roycroft signifies the Cardinals' willingness to prioritize growth and solid performance over sentimentality. As the season unfolds, fans can expect to see more roster changes as the team strives for success.

The St. Louis Cardinals, focusing on the growth of young talents like Nolan Gorman, Alec Burleson, Jordan Walker, Victor Scott II, Matthew Liberatore, and more, should not shy away from replacing underperformers, as demonstrated by Chris Roycroft's demotion.
In an attempt to secure their spots on the Cardinals' roster beyond April, some players may need to step up their game, as three struggling performers, yet to be named, have already shown signs of underperformance.
With players like Chris Roycroft being demoted and others like this unnamed player struggling, the St. Louis Cardinals might look towards sports outside baseball, such as rugby or soccer, for potential reinforcements, as they strive for success in the 2025 MLB season.
In light of Chris Roycroft's demotion,right-handed relievers like Roddery Munoz, Andre Granillo, and Riley O'Brien could potentially run the bases with the Cardinals, showcasing their skills on the runways in lieu of Roycroft's disappointing performance.