As the St. Louis Cardinals wrap up spring training, the picture of their Opening Day roster is becoming clearer. With recent roster moves, the team is setting the stage for an exciting start to the season.
Yesterday, the Cardinals made a key decision by optioning right-hander Richard Fitts to Memphis. This move solidifies their starting rotation, which features Matthew Liberatore, Dustin May, Michael McGreevy, Andre Pallante, and Kyle Leahy. Liberatore, earning the nod as the Opening Day starter, is expected to lead the charge for the Cardinals.
In the bullpen, the Cardinals made another significant move by sending Scott Blewett to Memphis. Blewett, though a contender, wasn't on the 40-man roster, making his cut less surprising. With Fitts and Blewett starting the year in Triple-A, the battle for the final bullpen spots is heating up.
The competition for those coveted spots includes Matt Pushard, Chris Roycroft, and Gordon Graceffo. Pushard, a Rule 5 draft pick from the Miami Marlins, must stay on the Major League roster all season to remain with the team, making him a strong candidate for one of the spots.
Roycroft has impressed in camp, allowing no runs over six innings, with six strikeouts and six hits. Manager Oli Marmol has noted Roycroft's improved comfort on the mound, a significant shift from last year's struggles.
Graceffo has also delivered scoreless outings, despite limited appearances due to his participation with Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic. He pitched two innings in the WBC, allowing one run and striking out four.
Both Roycroft and Graceffo are strong contenders for the Opening Day roster, with the flexibility to move between the majors and minors thanks to their option years. This allows the Cardinals to adapt their bullpen strategy throughout the season, bringing up other arms like Blewett and Ryan Fernandez as needed.
Looking ahead, Fitts could be called upon in late April or early May, during a stretch of 17 consecutive games. His role as a potential spot starter could provide much-needed relief for the rotation.
As the Cardinals finalize their roster, fans can look forward to a dynamic mix of talent ready to make an impact this season.