Cards to be cautious with Hicks' workload
Flame-throwing righty recorded first save Saturday on third straight day of work; Holland, Bowman pitch in Memphis
CINCINNATI -- Cardinals reliever Jordan Hicks recorded his first career save in the 6-4 win over the Reds on Saturday, becoming the third youngest pitcher in franchise history to record a save. He struck out Scooter Gennett and Eugenio Suarez to end the game, stranding Joey Votto after a one-out single. It was the third consecutive day Hicks had pitched.
"I feel pretty good," Hicks said after the win. "As good as you can feel after back-to-back-to-back days. A little sore but I am good."
Cardinals manager Mike Matheny said they're being cautious with Hicks as always.
"We just need to listen to him," Matheny said. "He is good about telling us. Days when he isn't feeling good, we shut him down. If the trainers see anything we shut him down."
Bowman, Holland make second appearances with Memphis
Greg Holland made his second appearance with Triple-A Memphis on Saturday. The right hander walked two and struck out one in an inning of relief, the same line as his first appearance on Thursday. Holland was placed on the 10-day disabled list with a right hip impingement on May 26.
"He isn't giving up runs, but the free bases are concerning," Matheny said. "I think Holland is still trying to find that feel."
Matt Bowman also pitched in Saturday's game in Memphis. He allowed a walk, but then induced a double play in a scoreless inning of relief. Bowman has yet to allow a hit in two combined innings. Bowman was placed on the 10-day disabled list on May 19 with blisters on his index and middle fingers.
"He looked good," Matheny said. "He is a guy who has always been able to pound the zone. I think Bowman has been even better. As far as his finger goes, that is going to be him getting sharp at this point."
Toronto claims Guilmet
The Blue Jays claimed former Cardinals pitcher Preston Guilmet on Saturday. St. Louis designated Guilmet for assignment on June 7, two days after calling him up from Triple-A Memphis. Guilmet made two appearances and gave up five runs on seven hits with three strikeouts in two combined innings of relief.