9 takeaways from St. Louis Cardinals series with Rockies

Bad – Dakota Hudson

On Thursday, Hudson threw five innings, giving up four hits, four walks, and two earned runs. He did strike out six batters while inducing seven swings and misses. The hope is to eventually see Hudson be an effective ground ball pitcher that’s a starter for the Cardinals. Manager Oli Marmol has previously said this sentiment is being expressed to Hudson. One may wonder if Hudson is just not taking the message.

Bad – Jordan Hicks

While hitting a max velocity of 103.2 mph, Hicks earned his sixth loss of the season after pitching 1.1 innings, giving up two earned runs on no hits and two walks. He did strike out one batter. It’s nice to have all that velocity, but it’s stressful to teammates when it’s not used effectively.

Terrible – Genesis Cabrera

Cabrera pitched to four batters in the seventh inning without getting a single out. He gave up four hits and four runs, including two home runs to Brendan Rodgers and Ryan McMahon. He’s had a terrible time lately and it’s a wonder how he is still with the Cardinals and not a minor league affiliate.

Good – Jake Woodford

Woodford made the bleeding stop, so to speak. He pitched 1.2 innings of relief Thursday. He gave up a hit but struck out two batters while inducing three swings and misses.