Cardinals fans, get ready — Michael McGreevy will start tonight.
The 25-year-old right-hander, one of the most talked-about arms in the organization this year, will start today against the Colorado Rockies. And while it’s technically a spot start, make no mistake: this is a showcase. It’s also a preview of what may soon become a permanent gig.
Can Michael McGreevy Tame the Rockies?
Katie Woo of The Athletic broke the news, reporting that McGreevy will take the mound in Colorado while the team skips Matthew Liberatore’s turn through the rotation.
The move gives Liberatore some much-needed rest as he inches past his career high in innings pitched.
But it also does something else: it gives McGreevy the stage — again.
Ever since Spring Training, fans have been buzzing about McGreevy. He’s shown flashes during brief stints in the majors, and his numbers in Triple-A this year have been rock solid. The stuff is there. The mound presence is there. And if the Cardinals are looking to build a future rotation core, McGreevy looks like a big part of that plan.
Time to Quit the Limbo and get on Center Stage
Still, he’s been stuck in spot start limbo — waiting for his chance to stick.
That chance might be coming sooner than later. With the trade deadline looming on July 31, there’s growing speculation that Erick Fedde could be dealt. If the Cardinals move the veteran righty — and with his contract and experience, he’s certainly a trade chip — it would open a rotation spot for good.
That would be McGreevy’s window.
Right now, this is more than just a fill-in start in Coors Field. It’s an audition. And if the Cardinals are serious about chasing wins while also building for the long haul, getting McGreevy regular turns might be the best move they can make.
So circle Monday. Whether it’s the beginning of something or just a preview, Michael McGreevy is back on the mound — and fans will be watching closely.
