Bad news for Cardinals pitchers Jaime Garcia, Jake Westbrook and Fernando Salas. Eduardo Sanchez claimed on waivers

It was another rough couple days for Cardinals pitching.

First, according to Jennifer Langosch, Jake Westbook had to cut his bullpen session short today after 20 pitches due to experiencing more discomfort in his elbow.  Its unclear as to how long this will set him back or what the next step will be. 

This follows up the news that Jaime Garcia is likely done for the season, as he will undergo shoulder surgery.  Combined with the news on Westbrook, the calls for Michael Wacha will only get louder. 

Second, Fernando Salas had to be placed on the DL yesterday, with what is described as right shoulder irritation.  This is a tough blow for an already shaky bullpen.  Salas was one of the bright spots so far this year, with a 3.86 ERA in 16.1 innings. 


Finally, Eduardo Sanchez was claimed off waivers by the Cubs.  Once considered one of the Cardinals top 10 prospects by Baseball America and a potential closer, Sanchez saved 5 games for the Cards in 2011 before elbow and control issues set him back.  He has since been leap-frogged by guys like Trevor Rosenthal, Carlos Martinez and others.

With the Cardinals needing to make room for tonight's starter, Tyler Lyons, on the 40-man roster, Sanchez was the odd man out.  I would have liked to see someone else go, especially given the Cards bullpen issues, however, the Cardinals have obviously lost patience with Sanchez. He should have more of an opportunity with the rebuilding Cubs going foward.

Overall, not a good day or so for the Cardinals.  Their pitching keeps taking hits and yet the team continues to find ways to adapt.  The Cards pitching depth is certainly being tested this year.