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

While the NL West has plenty of star power that usually claims fans' attention, there are still interesting position battles to be won in the spring. Here some to be watching for.
Feb 21 2026 3:03am
McLain struggled to regain his 2023 form coming back from injury in 2025. Can he find that level again in 2026?
Feb 20 2026 3:30am
Can Jac Caglianone or Isaac Collins give the Royals a productive OF? Plus, looks at the CHW rotation, rookie hitters in Cleveland, the potential impact of Kevin McGonigle in DET, and the Twins bullpen.
Feb 19 2026 3:08am
As we enter spring training, what are some of the major questions for the AL West?
Feb 18 2026 3:08am
Chandler Simpson headlines a crowded outfield competition in Tampa Bay. Plus, an abundance of options are fighting to round out Boston's rotation, and more.
Feb 17 2026 3:05am

Tools