St. Louis Cardinals: Trevor Rosenthal’s future

Jun 28, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Cardinals relief pitcher Trevor Rosenthal (44) celebrates after closing out the ninth inning against the Chicago Cubs at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Cubs 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

If Rosenthal dips below 40 saves, the Cards have a problem.

From Matt Whitener(Cheap Seats Please)–I expect Trevor to stay at about the same level this year statistically. I would anticipate 40+ saves, an ERA in the 2.25 range over 65 apperances and 85 k’s. He’s a rising star on a competitive team that has plenty of opportunities for him to get on the field. If Trevor dips below 40 saves, this team is having trouble winning, period.

As for a multi-year deal, I’m not so optimistic there. He’s a Boras guy and as such, I always lean towards the idea of him staying out for the optimal pay out. It’s just his representative’s business tactics. Trevor could be in line to see between $8M to $10M in year 2 arb if he only just stays healthy, let alone continues to be a 40-save lock. If the Cardinals do look extension, it would be next spring.

As for being a closer for his entire career, tomorrow never knows. That is a tough role and one that claims more than it preserves. At the same time, I think he’s in that role throughout his 20’s at least and that any notion of him becoming a starter again should be tucked away, especially in St. Louis.

Next: What if Rosie gets hurt?

If Rosenthal dips below 40 saves, the Cards have a problem.

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