As the trade deadline looms, Steven Matz, the St. Louis Cardinals’ left-handed pitcher, finds himself a subject of trade rumors. Approaching the end of his four-year contract, Matz’s adaptability in a relief role has made him an attractive trade asset. This article explores Matz’s perspective on his current situation, his transition to the bullpen, and his aspirations for the future, providing insights into his value to the Cardinals and potential suitors.
The Cardinals are at a critical juncture, balancing their present needs with long-term strategies. Matz’s ability to perform in various roles—starter and reliever—adds to his appeal. With the trade deadline drawing near, it’s crucial to examine what Matz has demonstrated in his relief role and how it may shape his future in St. Louis or elsewhere. The team’s decisions will not only impact Matz but also their competitiveness.
We’ll delve into Matz’s reflections on his health, his adjustment to the reliever role, and his desire to start games. Additionally, we’ll cover other roster updates, including John King’s injury, subsequent roster moves, rehab progress of Nolan Gorman and Lars Nootbaar, and the impressive performance of prospect JJ Wetherholt.
Steven Matz’s Mindset Approaching the Trade Deadline
As Steven Matz approaches the trade deadline, he remains focused on his present role with the Cardinals, despite external factors influencing his future. Matz acknowledges the challenges posed by potential relocation, especially with his family involved. Yet, he maintains a practical approach, emphasizing the importance of remaining present and cherishing each day, rather than dwelling on uncertainties.
Matz said Wednesday ahead of Thursday’s trade deadline. “It’s hard to avoid the idea of uprooting stuff when you’ve got family involved and stuff like that. Ultimately, we’re still here, and so I’m just kind of keeping my same mindset as I had all here and just trying to enjoy every day and just be present with where I’m at. That’s all you can do.”
His mindset reflects a deep understanding of the game’s unpredictable nature. Rather than succumbing to speculation, Matz channels his energy into performance, controlling what he can on the field. This mental fortitude not only benefits him personally but also sets a positive example for his teammates during a potentially distracting period.
Focusing on the present and maintaining a consistent mindset are strategies that allow Matz to navigate the uncertainties of the trade deadline with composure. By prioritizing daily performance, he demonstrates his commitment to the Cardinals while showcasing his value to potential trade partners.
Trade of Closer Ryan Helsley
The Cardinals have already begun reshaping their roster by trading closer Ryan Helsley to the New York Mets. This move signals a strategic shift in bullpen dynamics and reflects the organization’s focus on acquiring future assets. The departure of a key player like Helsley underscores the team’s willingness to make significant changes in pursuit of longer-term objectives.
With the four-year deal he inked with the Cardinals ahead of the 2022 season set to expire at the end of this season, Matz’s stability out of the bullpen has made him one of the intriguing bullpen pieces the Cardinals could deal before 5 p.m. central time Thursday. The Cardinals dealt one of their key trade chips before Wednesday’s series finale vs. the Marlins at Busch Stadium. They struck a deal with the Mets that will send closer Ryan Helsley to New York, Post-Dispatch reporter Derrick Goold confirmed.
This trade impacts the roles of other relief pitchers, potentially elevating Steven Matz’s importance within the bullpen, at least until the trade deadline. It also signals that the Cardinals are actively re-evaluating their roster composition as they approach critical decision-making junctures. Other teams consider these moves when assessing the Cardinals’ intentions and available talent.
The decision to trade Ryan Helsley sets the stage for further roster adjustments. How the Cardinals manage these adjustments will be indicative of their broader strategy. For Matz, this trade could mean increased opportunities or signal his own potential departure as the team continues to refine its roster.
Matz’s Health and Performance in a Relief Role
After several seasons marred by injuries, Steven Matz has focused on maintaining his health, resulting in a productive year in a new relief role. This season, he has a 3.44 ERA over 55 innings across 32 games, primarily from the bullpen. His success in this role has increased his value as a trade candidate, proving his resilience and adaptability.
Matz, 32, entered this season coming off three consecutive seasons limited by injury. A shoulder injury and an MCL injury limited him to 48 innings in 2022, the first year of a $44 million contract with St. Louis. In 2023, a left lat strain kept the lefty to 105 innings. A lower back strain in 2024 required him to spend 123 days on the injured list and kept him to fewer than 45 innings.
Matz said he entered the year hoping to “just be healthy” and to be an “asset.” “The past three years, I really wasn’t able to do either of those things,” he said.
His ability to remain healthy and consistently perform has transformed him into a valuable asset for the Cardinals. Matz has adapted to multiple roles, demonstrating his commitment to the team’s needs and showcasing his reliability. His success after overcoming injury challenges serves as an inspiring example.
Matz’s Versatility as a Valuable Asset
Steven Matz’s ability to transition between starting and relieving roles enhances his appeal to potential trade partners. This season, he has made two starts while primarily serving as a reliever, demonstrating adaptability. Manager Oliver Marmol has praised Matz for his willingness to fulfill diverse roles, highlighting his value to the Cardinals.
In a role new to him, Matz has posted a 3.44 ERA and logged 55 innings in 32 games, 30 of which have come from the bullpen. The former longtime starter has made two starts to give the Cardinals a sixth starter when needed and made three appearances on no days of rest after never having done so in 10 seasons before this season.
“His ability to stay healthy and then show what he’s capable of doing regardless of the role that he’s been placed in,” Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said of Matz. “He bounced back and forth. He’s done some spot starts and gone to the bullpen and thrown multiples. He’s been a one-inning guy, two-inning. He’s done everything we’ve asked, and he’s handled every bit of it extremely.”
Matz’s willingness to take on any role asked of him reflects a team-first mentality, making him a respected figure in the clubhouse. His ability to seamlessly switch between starting and relief roles provides teams with the flexibility to address various needs. This versatility significantly boosts his trade value.
Future Aspirations and Goals
Looking beyond the trade deadline, Steven Matz still aspires to start games in the major leagues. While content in his current relief role, he believes he can contribute as a starter and intends to pursue this goal. His experiences as a reliever have provided him with valuable insights, enhancing his understanding of his body and preparation.
“I think ultimately, in my mind, I still would like to start some games in big leagues,” Matz said. “That’s definitely a goal. I feel like I can still do that. I’m happy to do what they need me to do here in those roles. But I think knowing that I can do both now is definitely something to be able to go back to backs and go multiple innings out of the bullpen … but I think ultimately starting is really kind of where my heart is.”
Matz’s blend of current performance and future aspirations enhances his appeal to teams seeking both immediate bullpen help and potential starting depth. His long-term goals align with his dedication to refining his skills. This forward-thinking mindset distinguishes him as a player committed to ongoing improvement.
His desire to start showcases his competitive spirit and determination to excel at the highest level. This ambition, combined with his proven adaptability, makes him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their pitching staff in multiple capacities.
Roster Updates and Injury News
In addition to trade considerations, the Cardinals have been managing other roster changes. John King was placed on the injured list with an oblique strain, prompting the recall of Gordon Graceffo from Class AAA Memphis. Nolan Gorman and Lars Nootbaar have begun rehab assignments, while prospect JJ Wetherholt continues to impress.
The Cardinals placed left-hander John King on the 15-day injured list with a left oblique strain after he exited early from his ninth-inning appearance Tuesday night. Right-hander Gordon Graceffo was recalled from Class AAA Memphis to fill the lefty’s spot in the bullpen.
Nolan Gorman (lower back pain) began his rehab stint with Class AA Springfield (Missouri) by going hitless with two strikeouts as the affiliate’s designated hitter. He continued his rehab assignment with a start at second base on Wednesday.
Lars Nootbaar (left costochondral sprain) joined Gorman in Springfield to begin his rehab assignment. Nootbaar was in Springfield’s lineup as its starting right fielder.
Top Cardinals prospect JJ Wetherholt continued his strong start to Class AAA with a two-hit, three-RBI showing on Tuesday that began with leadoff in the first inning against Norfolk. Since debuting in Class AAA on July 9, Wetherholt has batted .340 with a .385 on-base percentage and is slugging .787 in 52 plate appearances.
These updates provide a snapshot of the Cardinals’ current roster dynamics, highlighting both challenges and promising developments. Injury management and prospect development are integral to the team’s strategy, affecting trade decisions and future competitiveness.
Conclusion
As the trade deadline approaches, Steven Matz stands at a career crossroads. His ability to adapt to a relief role, coupled with his desire to start, makes him a unique asset for the Cardinals and potential trade partners. The trade of Ryan Helsley underscores the Cardinals’ strategic shifts, while roster updates provide insights into their broader plans.
Matz’s resilience in overcoming injuries and his commitment to team success have solidified his value. Whether he remains in St. Louis or is traded, his mindset and performance will be critical factors in determining his future. The Cardinals’ management of their roster will not only impact Matz but also shape their competitiveness in the coming years.
Ultimately, Steven Matz’s journey reflects the unpredictable yet compelling nature of baseball, where adaptability, determination, and a team-first attitude can define a player’s career. As the deadline passes and the season progresses, his contributions—wherever he may be—will be closely watched.
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