Cardinals prospect Carlos Martinez’ Spring Training Delayed

St. Louis Cardinals prospect Carlos Martinez is expected to make it to Spring Training in Jupiter, Florida, but it is not known as to when that reporting will be.

Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak announced to reporters that the pitcher is being delayed due to issues with getting a work visa. The recently acquired Ronny Cedeno is having related issues as well.

With Chris Carpenter out indefinitely, there will be a huge battle for a pitching spot in the rotation between Joe Kelly, Shelby Miller, and Trevor Rosenthal. The battle would have included All-Star pitcher Lance Lynn, who pitched a very strong first half last season, but Lynn is all but assured of a spot in the rotation given the news of Carpenter. It is possible that Miller will have a bullpen role similar to Wainwright in 2006 and Lynn in 2007.

Lance Lynn reported to camp 25 pounds lighter. Whether that translates into more wins this season remains to be determined. It will be a good idea to see how well Lynn performs during the spring before anything else.

Pitching coach Derek Lilliquist had the following comments to say about Shelby Miller’s new look:

"“He’s still a young guy and this is the best I’ve seen him come into camp, physically since he’s been in this organization,” Lilliquist said. “I think this is going to be a good thing. … Typically he’s not a fast starter. I think you’re going to see a different kid. He has definitely put forth the effort to put the solid weight back on. His arm looks good. His core looks good. Move forward.”"

Cardinals coach Jose Oquendo said that Matt Carpenter is ahead of Skip Schumaker with regards to converting to second base. Oquendo also gives Carpenter’s conversion as the reason why he’s staying in Jupiter this spring and not managing the Puerto Rico team in the World Baseball Classic.