John Mozeliak may have pulled off a surprise move to bolster the St. Louis Cardinals’ bullpen, bringing in a recent World Series standout to strengthen the unit.
Although the Cardinals’ relief staff has shown improvement since a shaky start to the year, it was clear the team needed additional help to maintain consistency over the long haul—and they’ve just taken their first step in doing so.
The Cardinals have signed former World Series star to be a part of their bullpen depth
Top star, recently designated for assignment by the New York Yankees, has signed a major contract with the St. Louis Cardinals and will report to Triple-A Memphis. In seven appearances for the Yankees this season, he posted a 4.26 ERA over 6.1 innings with seven strikeouts, but the Yankees chose not to keep him on their roster.
Originally signed by New York on a minor league deal this offseason, he has had a strong track record as a reliever, particularly from 2020 to 2022 with the Atlanta Braves. During that span, he compiled a 2.92 ERA across 132 games while averaging over 10 strikeouts per nine innings. He played a key role in Atlanta’s bullpen during their 2021 World Series run and holds a career 1.48 ERA in 20 postseason appearances.
After undergoing Tommy John surgery at the end of 2022, Matzek missed all of 2023 and has pitched just 10 major league innings in 2024. His recovery has taken time, making the Cardinals’ decision to sign him a low-risk move with potential upside.
As a lefty, Matzek adds valuable depth to a St. Louis bullpen that has lacked consistent performance from its left-handed options. JoJo Romero has been inconsistent, John King has struggled, and while Steven Matz has been reliable, he’s often used in various roles beyond high-leverage relief. Matzek could become a needed contributor from the left side if he returns to form.
Though far from a guaranteed solution, Matzek’s signing is a smart move by the Cardinals. His fastball averaged 94.5 mph with the Yankees this year, showing signs of returning to the velocity he had during his most successful years. He primarily relies on a four-seam fastball, with a slider and occasional sinker as secondary pitches. His effectiveness hinges on the fastball regaining its dominance.
Matzek will begin in Memphis, but with a grueling schedule of 28 games in 29 days ahead, he could soon get a chance to join the big-league bullpen. If he performs well, he may replace King as a key lefty option. For now, all eyes will be on his progress at Triple-A.