As Opening Day approaches, the St. Louis Cardinals are busy finalizing their rosters, both major and minor league. With the regular season just around the corner, the Cardinals have begun maneuvering their roster, using the long-term injured list as a key tool in their strategy.
Among those expected to miss significant time this season are pitchers Sem Robberse and Zack Thompson. Both have been placed on the minor league 60-day injured list, which hints at extended absences.
Robberse, recovering from last season’s Tommy John surgery, was a predictable move. Thompson, however, who returned as a Non-Roster Invitee, seems to be facing further challenges.
Joining them on the IL are Brandon Clarke, recovering from shoulder surgery, draft pick Frank Elissalt, and Andrew Dutkanych IV. The specifics of these injuries remain unclear, but any time lost can hinder a prospect’s development. Also noted is Reiner Lopez, a promising 20-year-old righty with experience in the DSL.
These roster adjustments open up opportunities for other prospects to find their footing at various levels. As these assignments solidify, there could be shifts on the major league roster too.
Lars Nootbaar’s slower-than-expected rehab could land him on the 60-day IL, potentially making room for JJ Wetherholt. If the team believes Nelson Velázquez deserves a spot on the Opening Day roster, additional moves might be necessary.
This doesn’t have to mean an IL placement; the Cardinals could opt for a different roster maneuver to keep their options open.
Meanwhile, minor leaguers Cooper Hjerpe and Ixan Henderson are also dealing with arm issues. The team faces decisions on whether to add them to the IL, considering service time implications. If the Cardinals choose to avoid starting their service clocks, they might look at other roster moves, such as designating players like Matt Pushard or Jose Fermin for assignment, though this risks losing them to other teams.
As the Cardinals continue to navigate these roster complexities, fans can expect further developments that will shape the team's outlook for the season.