photo: Anthony Misiewicz (USA TODAY Sports)
St. Louis Cardinals press release
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today (Thursday, March 23) that they have optioned left-handed pitcher Anthony Misiewicz to the Memphis (AAA) roster, reducing the number of the players on the Spring Training camp roster to 40 with one week remaining until Opening Day on Thursday, March 30.
Today’s transaction leaves 30 Major League roster players and 10 non-roster invitees on the Spring Training camp roster.
Brian Walton’s take
Assuming the team carries two left-handed relievers, this cut leaves 40-man pitchers Zack Thompson, Packy Naughton, JoJo Romero and Genesis Cabrera plus non-roster invitee Andrew Suarez still in the running.
Misiewicz was acquired for cash from Kansas City on February 8. This spring, the 28-year-old allowed three earned runs in seven innings over seven appearances. He allowed eight hits, walked one, hit a batter and struck out eight.
Other news
On Thursday morning, manager Oliver Marmol disclosed that expected Opening Day starting pitcher Adam Wainwright will instead open the season in the injured list. The 41-year-old reportedly suffered a groin strain while working out during his time away from the club for the World Baseball Classic. It was an event that Wainwright enthusiastically supported.
It is expected that Jake Woodford will step into Wainwright’s spot in the starting rotation. Though it may not be announced until Friday, my guess is that Miles Mikolas will get the ball against Toronto on March 30 to replace Waino.
In addition, Rule 5 pitcher Wilking Rodriguez is suffering from tightness in his right shoulder and will also open on the IL. That delays the Cardinals’ decision whether the right-hander is one of their best eight relievers.
If not, the 32-year-old would have to be returned to the Yankees or be exposed to waivers. This way, he can go on a minor league rehab stint before the club has to decide if he is a keeper.
As previously reported, infielder Paul DeJong’s sore back will also put him on the injured list to open 2023.
For more
To see all players in the system by level and position plus every transaction all year ‘round, check out the always free Roster Matrix here at The Cardinal Nation, refreshed today.
Exclusively for members of The Cardinal Nation
Walton’s Cardinals Minor League Spring Training Camp Report – March 22, 2023
Now available – 2023 Prospect Guide
The Cardinal Nation 2023 Prospect Guide is back for its sixth year. It includes a record 292 pages of in-depth commentary about the very best St. Louis Cardinals minor leaguers, including dozens of new scouting reports and much more.
https://thecardinalnation.com/order-tcns-2023-cardinals-prospect-guide/
Not yet a member?
Join The Cardinal Nation for the most comprehensive coverage of the St. Louis Cardinals from the majors through the entire minor league system.
Brian Walton can be reached via email at brian@thecardinalnation.com or for fastest turnaround, pose your questions on The Cardinal Nation’s members-only forum. Follow Brian on Twitter.
© 2023 The Cardinal Nation, thecardinalnation.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.