Cardinals Farm Journal: Week of 7/9-15

If there is one facet of the Cardinals that needs improvement, it would be the bullpen. The team may be closer to adding another arm to that ‘pen, as lefty Zach Duke has been rehabbing at Triple-A Memphis dating back to July 7. Duke has logged four scoreless appearances since then, including three in the span of this week’s recap - 7/9-15.

Also at Memphis is shortstop Aledmys Diaz, although his path back to the Majors is a little more complex. With Paul DeJong solidifying the shortstop position and helping to anchor the lineup, Diaz, who struggled in the bigs, isn’t likely to take DeJong of a job anytime soon, despite recording four hits in his last eleven at-bats.

Player of the Week: Memphis Redbirds infielder Breyvic Valera

The utility infielder who has recently served as the designated hitter, the 25-year-old Valera has went 5-for-14 with a home run (his second), two walks, and three runs batted in.

Pitcher of the Week: Memphis Redbirds starting pitcher John Gant

In his start on July 14 against the Round Rock Express, Gant twirled six innings of one-run ball, striking out seven along the way. Gant didn’t factor in the decision, but did lower his earned run average to 3.13 in 54 ²⁄₃ Triple-A innings this season.

Player to watch: Johnson City Cardinals outfielder Wadye Ynfante

The 19-year-old Ynfante has eight hits in his last 23 at-bats, including two home runs. Ynfante has driven in five runs, scored four runs, and stolen two bases.

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Sunday’s probables:

MEM: Jack Flaherty

SPR: Zac Gallen

PMB: Ryan Helsley

PEO: TBD

SC: Paul Balestrieri

JNC: Jacob Schlesener