Loss of Carlos Martinez Could Change Outcome of Cardinals' Season
By Parker White
We're at a point in the MLB season where seemingly every pitch of every game matters. That proved true on Sunday, as the St. Louis Cardinals gave up a ninth-inning, go-ahead grand slam to Milwaukee Brewers slugger Ryan Braun.
St. Louis only leads the NL Central by two games over the Chicago Cubs, and with the Brewers only one game back of the second Wild Card spot, there's still a scenario in which the Redbirds actually don't make the playoffs.
Perhaps that's an overreaction to one unfortunate moment, but Carlos Martinez wasn't the one who came into the game with the lead in the ninth inning on Sunday. Why? Because the Redbirds closer is dealing with a respiratory problem that forced him into the hospital Saturday night.
Per Shildt: Carlos Martinez was dealing with respiratory issues. Spent last night in the hospital. They’re hoping it’s day to day. #STLCards
— Jim Hayes (@TheCatOnFox) September 15, 2019
He's listed as day-to-day with no return date being provided. St. Louis hopes he's healthy and returns before the regular season ends, but they could be behind the eight ball if he doesn't return soon.
Of their remaining 13 remaining games, the Cardinals will face the Cubs seven more times. That makes for plenty of chances to clamp down on the division. With the Brewers winning nine of their last 10 games, you can't ignore them, either.
The Cardinals’ bullpen looks burnt. All those short starts adding up.
— Dan Buffa (@buffa82) September 16, 2019
Losing Carlos Martinez for any extended period of time will only make the problems swell up.
The last 13 games are going to require lots of bourbon. #STLCards
The Cardinals have the arms in the bullpen to shut down games without Martinez, but if Sunday was any indication, they need him back if they want to seal a playoff berth.