St. Louis’ retooled rotation is holding its own so far
Last season, observing the St. Louis Cardinals’ pitching rotation was a continuous source of disappointment, contributing significantly to their last-place finish in the National League Central with a 71-91 record. Following the departure of three key starters from the 2023 roster, John Mozeliak, the Cardinals’ president of baseball operations, took proactive steps during the offseason, promptly acquiring three experienced pitchers.
Even though the Cardinals managed to fill the gaps in their rotation, some were still hoping for additional reinforcements, fearing that the new acquisitions might not suffice for a strong comeback in 2024. However, recent developments indicate otherwise. Sonny Gray, Kyle Gibson, and Lance Lynn have collectively showcased impressive performances, boasting a 5-3 record with a 2.73 ERA, a notable 69-to-23 strikeout-to-walk ratio, limiting opposing batters to a .233 batting average, and maintaining a commendable 1.14 WHIP across 74 innings pitched.
The Cardinals’ rotation this year is one of their best assets, unlike last year. It’s depressing to see St. Louis still at the bottom of their division after Grey was almost flawless in all three of his starts and Gibson and Lynn held their own.
In actuality, the lineup—which has scored the fourth fewest runs in the league at 87—is to blame for the empty seats at Busch Stadium this season, not the pitching staff.
The Cardinals will have a chance to make a comeback if the revitalised rotation can maintain its strong performance. The lineup is full of talented players that have the ability to heat up, which might propel St. Louis back to the “Cardinals Way” of success.