St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Matthew Liberatore is already showing clear improvement compared to last season, raising hopes that he could emerge as the team’s true ace this year.
The Cardinals have fully embraced a rebuilding phase, highlighted by trades involving key players such as Sonny Gray, Nolan Arenado, Brendan Donovan, and Willson Contreras. With these veterans gone, much of the responsibility now falls on younger talents including Liberatore, JJ Wetherholt, Alec Burleson, and Masyn Winn, who are expected to help guide the franchise into its next phase.
According to Eno Sarris of The Athletic, Liberatore appears to have significantly improved his pitching arsenal during spring training. Adjustments such as a higher arm slot, increased velocity on his curveball, and improved command suggest the left-hander could be poised for a breakout season.
Earlier in his career, analytical models were not impressed with Liberatore’s performance. His pitch quality ratings were below average, his fastball velocity was modest, and his strikeout-to-walk numbers were underwhelming. As a result, some of his projected ERA figures during his first two seasons exceeded 5.00. Frustrated with his progress, Liberatore reportedly took steps to refine his approach and mechanics.
Since then, he has made several key changes. He has raised his release point, added a cutter to his repertoire, slightly increased his velocity, and improved the distinction between his fastball and sinker. His curveball is now thrown several miles per hour faster, and his slider shows greater movement.
These developments have significantly improved the effectiveness of his pitches. Reports indicate that his six-pitch mix now features strong command, with several pitches rated above average both in quality and location. With these improvements, Liberatore is expected to start on Opening Day for the Cardinals, especially with the team playing in a pitcher-friendly home park.
Last season, Liberatore performed solidly but appeared more like a back-end starter rather than a frontline ace. However, after the trade of Gray, he is now projected to lead the Cardinals’ rotation.
If his improved command and velocity continue into the regular season, Liberatore could become a much tougher challenge for opposing hitters. The left-hander possesses the tools needed to become a top-tier pitcher; now the key will be maintaining his progress and proving himself as the long-term leader of the Cardinals’ pitching staff.
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