With full squad workouts underway for the St. Louis Cardinals, the buzz for the upcoming season is palpable.
As players hit the field in Jupiter, fans are treated to the familiar sights of players in peak condition and the thrill of on-field action. But beyond the spectacle, there's a genuine battle brewing for spots in the bullpen, particularly among the left-handed relievers.
The Cardinals find themselves in a unique spot with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising talents vying for roles. This intriguing blend might explain why the team has held onto JoJo Romero, a key late-inning lefty, instead of trading him for minor league prospects.
Romero is joined by fellow lefties Justin Bruihl and Nick Raquet, who bring major league experience to the table. Meanwhile, non-roster invitees like Jared Shuster, Packy Naughton, and Zack Thompson are eager to make their mark. Naughton and Thompson, in particular, have faced significant injury challenges but are ready to prove their worth.
Packy Naughton, 29, had a promising run in 2023, striking out nearly a batter per inning over 26 games. Despite a 4.78 ERA, his 3.14 FIP suggests he was more effective than his surface stats show. After undergoing surgery for a flexor tendon and Tommy John surgery, Naughton is back, eyeing a spot in the bullpen.
Zack Thompson, a first-round pick in 2019, has shown flashes of potential across 52 games over three seasons. However, injuries have consistently cut his campaigns short, including a season-long absence in 2025.
Now 28, Thompson is poised for a comeback, and the Cardinals might opt to use him in a relief role to manage his workload. With a minor league option available, Thompson has some flexibility as he competes for a roster spot.
The ideal scenario for the Cardinals would be for all their left-handed options to excel in spring training. Such a development might even spark trade talks involving Romero, especially if other teams face injury issues. Should Romero be moved, it would open up opportunities for any lefty ready to step up.
As the competition unfolds, the Cardinals' bullpen battle is one to watch, with every pitch and inning potentially shaping the roster for the season ahead.