6 years agoSt. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Carlos Martinez, who finished out the 2018 season as the team's closer, will enter spring training next year in a starting role once again. Martinez went to the bullpen in August while feeling unable to continue as a starter due to three stints on the disabled list with right arm issues. “I think the front office and everybody would like to see him show up in spring training as a starter. I like those sentiments,” manager Mike Shildt said, diplomatically. In order to avoid injuries in 2019, Martinez will stay diligent in adding strength and taking care of his body. If the right-hander can stay healthy, he could have a nice season as a bounce-back option for fantasy owners. In the late innings, there wouldn't be a set guy to handle the ninth inning, but one option would be Jordan Hicks, who has a 100 mph fastball and a wipeout slider.--Keith Hernandez - RotoBaller
Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch - Rick Hummel