Matz lands lucrative Cardinals deal

In the latest of post-season rotations, St Louis Cardinals have signed Steven Matz to a four year contract.

The 30-year-old will take home $44 million with this potentially rising to $48 million in bonuses which would average out at $12 million per year.

Matz has been plagued by injuries throughout his seven year career, though started to show promise last season at the Blue Jays, witnessing a significant revival in form.

 

Matz a difference-maker?

The left-handed pitcher makes it a promising rotation for the Cardinals in the post-season, with Adam Wainwright, Jack Flaherty, Dakota Hudson, and Miles Mikolas all committing to the side.

Matz posted impressive statistics last season, with a 45.5% ground-ball rate being ranked 19th for major league pitchers in 2021,with at least 150 innings pitched.

St Louis certainly boast a strong roster of players going into the 2022 season, and have the likes of Jake Woodford who had a very positive season in 2021, while relievers Alex Reyes and Jordan Hicks can provide more than adequate cover should injuries occur.

Adding Matz though, definitely gives the Cardinals a different dimension. His threat from the left side can be potent when executed effectively and he has the ability to dig his side out of trouble when called upon.

 

Clear signal of intent from Cardinals

The size of the contract put in front of Matz clearly indicates that the Cardinals see the player as someone who can significantly contribute over the long term.

It could perhaps be the vote of confidence that Matz needs, especially after he showed signs of getting back to his best last season.

A run at the championship could even be a realistic prospect for the Cardinals, who it appears, have recruited well.

Adding a player of the pedigree of Matz definitely indicates a clear signal of intent from the Cardinals, especially considering the amount that they have been prepared to invest.