CINCINNATI — St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Randal Grichuk made his first start of the season in Friday night’s series opener in Cincinnati, batting eighth and playing center field.
“He needs to play,” said Cardinals manager Mike Matheny. “Just like all our guys on the bench, it’s hard getting our everyday guys out there with the schedule we’ve had and the weather.”
The move paid off in the second inning of Friday’s game when Grichuk launched a 1-1 pitch from Reds starter, and former Cardinal, Jason Marquis, for a two-run home run.
While the 23-year-old Texan hasn’t settled on a “natural” outfield position, Matheny believes Grichuk has the speed to play center and arm-strength indicative of a right fielder.
“We already have a pretty good arm in right,” Matheny said. “He has the speed to make up some ground in center. He’s still understanding the league and how to get good jumps.”
The Cardinals acquired Grichuk from the Angels in Nov. 2013 in the deal that sent David Freese to Anaheim.
He got his first taste of the big leagues last season when he appeared in 47 games for St. Louis, hitting .245 with six doubles, three home runs, and eight RBIs.
Grichuk gained further confidence in the spring, batting .250 (11-for-44) with a team-leading four homers and 10 RBIs.
“He’s feeling good about his swing,” said Matheny. “Wanted to find some time for him. We have a couple guys who need the at-bats to stay sharp.”