The St. Louis Cardinals have made their final decisions for the Opening Day roster, particularly focusing on their bullpen lineup.
After some intense deliberation, the club has opted to send right-handed pitcher Gordon Graceffo to Triple-A Memphis. Graceffo, who recently showcased his talents with Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic, was the last pitcher optioned, cementing the bullpen configuration as the team prepares to start the season.
With Graceffo heading to Memphis, the Cardinals' bullpen will feature these eight pitchers: right-handers Matt Svanson, Riley O'Brien, Ryan Stanek, George Soriano, Matt Pushard, and Chris Roycroft, alongside left-handers JoJo Romero and Justin Bruihl.
Earlier in the week, the Cardinals also sent right-handers Richard Fitts and Scott Blewett to Triple-A, narrowing the competition for the final bullpen spots to Pushard, Roycroft, and Graceffo. Pushard, a Rule 5 draft pick, was a strong contender due to his status, as the Cardinals would have to offer him back to the Miami Marlins if he were optioned. Meanwhile, Roycroft impressed throughout spring training, earning his place on the roster.
It's worth noting that Roycroft is the only pitcher, apart from Svanson, who can be optioned back to Memphis without any complications. This flexibility means he might be the first to move if the team needs to shuffle the bullpen early in the season, potentially making room for Graceffo or other emerging arms.
While the Cardinals are starting with this lineup, there’s an understanding that changes might be on the horizon. Pushard will need to perform well to maintain his spot, and pitchers like Bruihl and Soriano will also have to deliver to secure their positions.
Graceffo, though beginning in Memphis, is expected to have opportunities to contribute in St. Louis as the season progresses.
The bullpen dynamics are set for now, but the Cardinals are ready to adapt as needed.