DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—Rosenthal to bullpen

St Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals told Trevor Rosenthal (RHP, STL) that he would open the season in the bullpen, leaving Joe Kelly (RHP, STL) and Shelby Miller (RHP, STL) to compete for the final spot in the rotation. Kelly has allowed two earned runs in eight innings, while Miller has allowed six earned runs in 7.2 IP.  A  formal announcement on the fifth starter is expected soon, and it certainly appears that Kelly will start the season in the rotation. However, Kelly's low Dom approach (5.6 Dom last season and only two strikeouts this spring) should eventually yield to the more highly skilled Miller. Miller has eight strikeouts this spring and has issued only two walks.

If Rosenthal's move to the pen is permanent, it could have some...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

The reality of Byron Buxton's injury history necessitates having a CF backup plan in place, but the Twins' current plan is unclear. Plus, a look at 2B for CWS and CLE, rotation depth for the Tigers, and the saves situation in KC.
Feb 10 2026 3:04am
With Yoan Moncada returning to 3B, there's a new position battle at 2B for the Angels.
Feb 4 2026 3:05am
Edwin Uceta headlines Tampa Bay's group of late-inning relievers, but early indications are that the team will revert to a committee approach for saves.
Feb 3 2026 3:08am
With teams still putting rosters together, each of the NL West teams (even the Dodgers), has some work to do. What are next steps each team might take?
Jan 29 2026 3:06am

Tools