St. Louis Cardinals: Cards agree to deal with Adam Wainwright

The St. Louis Cardinals announced just after noon on Thursday that they have agreed to terms on a one-year contract for veteran pitcher Adam Wainwright.

The news comes on the heel of an injury plagued 2-4 season through eight starts for the St. Louis Cardinals and a 4.46 ERA for Adam Wainwright.

The news being the first “big” move the St. Louis Cardinals have announced in building the team for 2019, almost feels ceremonial and expected.

Wainwright has spent his entire big league career in the Cardinal uniform – slashing a career line of 148-85 with a 3.32 ERA through 352 games, 285 of which being starts. The one-year deal allows Wainwright the opportunity for his 15th season – third most by a pitcher in the Cardinals organization.

More so than the numbers – this provides a fan favorite through the years the opportunity to go out on his own terms. The long-time Cardinal has the well-deserved respect of the redbird organization and their fans.

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Whether you best remember Wainwright for getting the final out of the 2006 world series, two 19-win seasons, a 20-win season, a Silver Slugger award, or constant cheerleader; one thing is for sure – the guy has been a winner.

Whether the one-year deal finds Wainwright in the bullpen or to bolster rotation depth, it’s a risk that could find reward – a risk that seems necessary.

“There is risk, but it is shared,” said John Mozeliak in a press release announcing the teams decision, “this deal gives us added depth as we look to 2019.”

Added depth and the veteran presence surrounding a young pitching staff; something no one can be disappointed in or toward.

Regardless of feelings on the contract – this could be a strong indication that the Cardinals plan to waste no time in making the necessary moves to for a better 2019.