A Quiet Day on the Field, Movement Off It
The Cardinal Chronicle
Morning Farm Report: A Quiet Day on the Field, Movement Off It
St. Louis, MO
By Ray Mileur
Monday was a quiet day across the Cardinals’ farm system.
All four minor league affiliates were off, offering a brief pause in the daily rhythm of the season. But while there was no action on the field, there was no shortage of movement across the organization — a reminder that development isn’t limited to game results.
Reinforcements on the Way
Right-hander Matt Pushard is set to begin a rehab assignment this week, with plans to appear Wednesday for Triple-A Memphis.
Pushard, a Rule 5 Draft selection from the Miami Marlins, has been sidelined since March 31 with right knee patellar tendinitis. His return to game action follows a 20-pitch bullpen session at full intensity over the weekend, one he completed without issue.
The stakes are clear.
As a Rule 5 pick, Pushard must remain on the Cardinals’ active roster or injured list throughout the 2026 season for the club to retain his rights. Before the injury, he made a strong impression in Spring Training, posting a 3.12 ERA with nine strikeouts over 8.2 innings.
His progress will be worth watching closely.
Roster Move in St. Louis
The Cardinals designated left-hander Jared Shuster for assignment on Monday, clearing space for right-hander Ryan Fernandez, who was recalled from Triple-A Memphis.
Shuster’s move comes just days after his contract was selected on April 5. He most recently worked three innings in Sunday’s loss to Boston, throwing 50 pitches and leaving him unavailable for several days.
If he clears waivers, Shuster is expected to return to Memphis and remain part of the organization’s pitching depth.
Setback in Memphis
Triple-A right-hander Richard Fitts has been placed on the 7-day injured list with a right lat strain.
Acquired from Boston in the offseason trade involving Sonny Gray, Fitts had been one of Memphis’ most consistent arms early in the season and was viewed as a potential call-up option.
While the designation is officially short-term, lat injuries often require additional time, and no timetable for his return has been announced.
A Familiar Name Returns
Right-hander Cade Winquest is back in the Cardinals’ system after being returned by the New York Yankees following his Rule 5 Draft selection.
Winquest spent 17 days on the Yankees’ active roster but did not appear in a regular-season game. After clearing waivers, he has been assigned to Triple-A Memphis, adding another layer of depth to the organization’s pitching staff.
Final Thought
There are days when the box scores tell the story and there are days like Monday, when the movement behind the scenes matters just as much.
The Cardinals return to action today across the system — but the developments from a quiet off day may shape what comes next.
The Cardinal Chronicle, in association with Gateway Sports.