CINCINNATI — First and foremost, Mike Matheny wants his latest round of minor league call-ups to contribute to the club. However, the St. Louis Cardinals manager understands, too, that there is a residual benefit to bringing up the youngsters in September.
“Contributions are first priority for us,” Matheny said. “After that, it’s also an acknowledgement of having a good year. Also the idea that they’ll experience this atmosphere.
On Monday, the Cardinals completed their September roster by purchasing the contracts of right-hander Sam Tuivailala and outfielder Tommy Pham from Triple-A Memphis, and recalling infielder Greg Garcia from Triple-A. The Cardinals waited until the Redbirds completed the Pacific Coast League playoffs before making the additions.
The Cardinals’ active roster stands at 36.
Pham and Tuivailala will be making their major league debuts, while Garcia is embarking on his third stint this season with the club. Tuivailala impressed Matheny during spring training, and not just with his velocity.
“Throwing 100 (mph) doesn’t hurt,” Matheny said. “Besides that, he’s learned to pitch, not just be a thrower, but learn to command his secondary pitches.”
Tuivailala struck out 97 in 60 innings this season, the most strikeouts of any minor league pitcher with 60 or fewer innings pitched. He will pitch for the Peoria Javelinas in the prospect-filled Arizona Fall League.
Pham, who converted from shortstop to outfield in 2007, is ranked by Baseball America as being one of the organization’s top defensive outfielders and top throwers. He hit .324 with 10 homers and 44 RBIs in 104 games at Memphis.
Garcia, who appeared in nine games for the Cardinals previously this season, hit .275 with eight home runs and 41 RBIs in 110 games at Triple-A.
“They’re going to get a taste of what a pennant chase is all about,” Matheny said. “That’s invaluable.”