St. Louis Cardinals: A 2019 starting pitching preview

Carlos Martinez

If Carlos Martinez takes the next step in his development, he’s an absolute ace for the St. Louis Cardinals. He’s Pedro Martinez reincarnated. He has an electric fastball that touches the high 90s with movement and an effective slider/changeup combo. If Carlos can harness his raw stuff, he is an elite starter. For 2019, expect more of the same: inconstant brilliance with the hope of something better.

Miles Mikolas

Many people suddenly consider Miles Mikolas the ace of this staff after one season. I’m not sold yet. I think Mikolas will pitch well, but with a slight regression of last year’s performance. He has innings-eater stuff and makeup, and that is the role he should fit in. He is a quality pitcher who has consistent outings. He gives you a chance to win every time he takes the mound. He profiles as the #2 pitcher on the staff.

Jack Flaherty

Jack Flaherty burst onto the scene last year to the tune of a 3.34 ERA in 28 starts. He brought some rookie swagger onto the team and helped stabilize an injury plagued rotation. With a low 90s fastball and an amazing breaking ball, along with plus makeup and control, Flaherty’s ceiling is that of an ace.

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Flaherty’s only real negative in 2018 was his walk problems and inability to go deep into games. Both of those should smooth out as he continues to develop (hopefully) into a franchise icon. There is always the possibility of a sophomore slump, however. Flaherty could either continue what he did last year, or resemble Luke Weaver at the beginning of 2018.

Michael Wacha

This is potentially the last year Michael Wacha pitches in a St. Louis Cardinals uniform. With the depth behind him, there is a large likelihood that this happens. However, Wacha has a lot to prove before he hits free agency. He has not had an effective, healthy season in a couple of years.

In 2018, Wacha was pitching quite well before an oblique injury set him out for the year. Wacha throws a mid to high 90s fastball and a devious changeup, along with an effective curveball. When he’s right, he’s fun to watch. 2019 being a walk year, expect Wacha to do amazing things.

Adam Wainwright

Adam Wainwright is, sadly, at the end of his career. He was my personal hero growing up, the pitcher I tried to model myself after. I would love nothing more than to see him go have a vintage Wainwright year, throwing 200 innings with a 2.20 ERA, buckling knees with his curveball. But I don’t think it will happen. Instead, I think he will have a couple of good starts interrupted by stints on the disabled list. I honestly hope I’m wrong and Waino has a wonderful 2019.