The St. Louis Cardinals made a decisive move at the 2025 trade deadline by designating right-handed pitcher Erick Fedde for assignment on Wednesday. This action reflects the team’s need to reshape its starting rotation due to Fedde’s difficulties this season, despite his strong performance in 2024.
Fedde’s Challenges Lead to Shift in Rotation
After enjoying a career year split between the Chicago White Sox and St. Louis in 2024, Erick Fedde encountered significant challenges this season that reduced his effectiveness as a starter. The 32-year-old veteran was unable to sustain consistent production, prompting the Cardinals to transition away from him in favor of fresh talent.
Manager Oli Marmol’s Perspective on the Decision
St. Louis manager Oli Marmol discussed the decision to DFA Fedde during a Wednesday morning meeting held at the team hotel. Marmol explained,
“He was a pro about it,”
said Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol, who met with Fedde at the team hotel on Wednesday morning.
“He understood that we gave him several starts to try to correct and get on the other side of it. Unfortunately, it wasn’t translating into games. He was working hard at it, but he also understood where we are as an [organization], and that it opens up a spot for one of the young guys [Michael McGreevy] that’s going to contribute moving forward.”
Rising Star Michael McGreevy Steps Into Rotation
With Fedde removed from the rotation, the Cardinals have turned to promising young pitcher Michael McGreevy. The 24-year-old has demonstrated impressive results this season at Triple-A Memphis, boasting an 8-3 record with a 3.72 ERA, along with a 78-to-15 strikeout-to-walk ratio, a .271 batting average against, and a 1.24 WHIP over 75 innings.
Marmol on McGreevy’s Impact and Team’s Future
Marmol expressed confidence that McGreevy’s addition offers the team an upgrade in its rotation. Referring to the change, he shared,
“It gives us a real shot,”
Marmol said of the change from Fedde to McGreevy,
“It’s an upgrade, and the timing of it is good. Being able to come here and win Game 1 when [McGreevy] gives you seven [innings] is a big deal. Inserting that every fifth day is exciting.”
Marmol also praised McGreevy’s adaptability, stating,
“He’s done a nice job and he’s handled every assignment, and some of them have been pretty tough — from [facing the (Los Angeles) Dodgers] to [facing the (Chicago) Cubs] to Coors Field,”
Marmol said.
“He’s done a really nice job of responding to every opportunity. Now, it will be good to get him into a rhythm where we’ll get to see him every fifth day and make some strides.”
Strategic Implications for the Cardinals’ Season
Replacing Erick Fedde with Michael McGreevy signals a clear strategic shift for the Cardinals, aiming to strengthen their pitching staff for the remainder of the season. This move could enhance team performance and create momentum heading into the postseason, aligning with the club’s focus on integrating younger talent with proven upside.
Background on Nate Hagerty and Coverage Context
In related Cardinals coverage, Nate Hagerty has contributed as a content creator for “Inside The Cardinals.” A Boston native and lifelong fan of the team, Hagerty has followed St. Louis through highs and lows, offering insights into the team’s dynamics. Scott Neville manages business and marketing inquiries for this coverage.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How fast does Erick Fedde throw?
A. Fedde begins with a set of four pitches, focusing mainly on his fastball and slider.
His fastball, ranging from the low to mid-90s and reaching 97 mph, has great movement and dips to the side.
The slider is currently decent but could become an above-average pitch. His changeup also shows potential to be average.