Cardinals Top Pitching Prospect Shines in First Rehab Start

Mathews made quick work of his FCL opponents, completing two innings of scoreless ball while setting down four batters via strikeout and allowing just one hit. 

The southpaw was placed on 7-day IL on April 13 after concerns of his control and velocity came in to question. In three starts for Triple-A Memphis to begin the year, the former fourth rounder walked 15 batters - more than a quarter of his 2024 walk total (49) - in just 10 1/3 innings pitched. After walking six in 2 2/3 innings on April 11, Mathews hit the IL. 

Exact pitch totals and pitch tracking weren't available for the rookie-level start, but having surrendered no walks while striking out four of seven that he faced is certainly a good sign for Mathews and the Cardinals organization, alike. 

The Cardinals have high hopes for the 2024 MiLB Pitching Prospect of the Year as he finished last season leading all of minor league baseball with over 200 strikeouts.  

Although Mathews' first rehab start was promising, the Cardinals may still be looking for depth in pitching prospects with No. 3 RHP Tink Hence and No. 12 LHP Cooper Hjerpe out with long-term injuries.