Veteran pitcher Miles Mikolas has endured a season marked by inconsistency, reflecting the broader challenges faced by the St. Louis Cardinals. On Tuesday night, Mikolas struggled significantly, allowing five runs in just three innings during a 12-6 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, his previous two starts saw improved performances, including a shutout against the San Diego Padres on July 25.
Mikolas shared his frustration on The Morning After STL podcast, stating,
“Sometimes it feels like you’re taking two steps forward and one step back.”
He added,
“Which can really frustrating as a player.”
At age 36, Mikolas is playing under a three-year, $55.75 million contract that expires at the end of this season. Given his uneven play and changes in the front office, with Chain Boom succeeding John Mozeliak as the Cardinals’ president of baseball operations, his future with the team remains uncertain.
Cardinals Eye Rebuilding While Fighting for Playoff Position
Despite apparent moves toward rebuilding at the trade deadline, the Cardinals have found some momentum, winning two out of three games against the Dodgers and sitting five and a half games behind the final wild card spot. The team has also brought back legend Yadier Molina to provide leadership as they prepare for a critical series against the Chicago Cubs. As the Cardinals navigate this surge, the uncertain status of Mikolas adds to the team’s strategic decisions for the remainder of the season.
Quinn Matthews Emerges as a Potential Replacement
Meanwhile, Cardinals’ second-ranked prospect Quinn Matthews has gained attention for his recent dominant performances at the Triple-A level. The 24-year-old left-handed pitcher has bounced back from earlier left shoulder soreness and impressed by recording his fourth consecutive scoreless start for the Memphis Redbirds, striking out nine batters over seven innings against the Durham Bulls on Thursday.
Matthews’ season stats with Memphis include a 3-4 win-loss record and a 3.63 earned run average across 15 starts, with 72 strikeouts in 62 innings. He earned Minor League Pitching Prospect of the Year honors last season after striking out 202 batters, signaling his high potential. The main concern holding Matthews back from a major league promotion remains his control, with a WHIP of 1.51 and 50 walks allowed over 67 innings at various minor league levels. If he can improve this aspect, a call-up could soon follow.
Upcoming Schedule and What to Watch For
Mikolas is not expected to pitch this weekend against the Cubs. His next scheduled start is Monday at home versus the Colorado Rockies, followed by an outing likely on August 17 against the New York Yankees. How the Cardinals manage Mikolas moving forward, possibly balancing his experience against Matthews’ rising potential, will be crucial as they aim to maintain their playoff hopes amid ongoing uncertainties.