Bullpen Troubles Mounting

The Cardinals ended their five game winnings streak with a loss to Milwaukee Brewers tonight in the opener of a four game series with the Friars.   Even though the loss brings the Brew Crew even with the Redbirds in the standings, the part that stings is the lack of effectiveness from the St. Louis bullpen.

After yesterday’s heroics from Aaron Miles, it’s easy to forget that the Cards wouldn’t have even been in that position if it wasn’t for another faltering relief performance.  With the game on the line, former closer Jason Isringhausen blew yet another save opportunity, sending the game to the bottom of the ninth.

In game one of the Milwaukee series, the Cards found themselves in a similar situation.  Following an impressive come from behind ninth inning, it was again the late inning relief that allowed the Brewers to take the lead, and ultimately, win the game.

The Cardinals bullpen ranks worst in the National League, but the team somehow still remains in contention, just two games behind the division leading Chicago Cubs. After looking more closely at the numbers, it’s easy to conclude that with a better pen, the Cards would easily be leading the pack.

I’ll try to crunch some numbers to back up my disgust, but in the meantime, look for the Cards to try to even the series tomorrow night when current ace Kyle Lohse takes on former Cardinal Jeff Suppan.