The Cardinals finally have some relief in the starting rotation but at a steep price. I wrote about a week ago about the crowded outfield with the emergence of Jon Jay and Ludwick coming off the DL. It appears the Cardinals were also aware of the crowded outfield and decided to part with a fan-favorite and popular clubhouse guy in Ludwick.
This is saddening for many Cardinal fans because Ludwick revived his career in St. Louis, including a 2008 All-Star season where he hit 38 homers.
The Redbirds swung a three-team deal with the Indians and Padres, receiving Jake Westbrook from the Indians and prospect Nick Greenwood from the Friars. The Redbirds sent Ludwick west to San Diego, and Cleveland received prospects from the Padres.
The Cardinals have had to piece together a rotation with the absence of Brad Penny since May 22 and Kyle Lohse since June 5. Westbrook will no become a solid fourth starter behind the big three: Wainwright, Carpenter, and standout rookie Jaime Garcia. Once Lohse returns, he will likely take Suppan's fifth starter spot as Hawksworth will move back to the bullpen.
Despite Westbrook's mediocre stats (6-7, 4.65 ERA), there is plenty of promise for Westbrook moving forward. Westbrook is a traditional sinker ball pitcher, which is one of the specialties of pitching coach Dave Duncan. (Think Joel Piñiero) Westbrook relies on his command and induces a very high rate of ground balls.
This isn't to say Westbrook will immediately become a Cy Young pitcher by any means, but he certainly has room for improvement and the right tutelage to move in improving his stats and having a better second half with the Redbirds.
Ludwick's offense has been down this year but that is partly due to the fact that he had an extended stay on the disabled list. Nevertheless, his bat will certainly be missed in the Cardinals lineup. Nothing against Jon Jay, but Ludwick has been with the Cardinals organization longer and was a well-respected player and teammate. Ludwick will also be missed in St. Louis by the fans.
Only time will tell if General Manager John Mozeliak made the right move here. My gut instinct is that Ludwick's bat will be missed and as hot as Jay has been, he's got to come back down to Earth sometime. Hopefully Westbrook becomes another great success story in the career of Dave Duncan. .
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