Rotation and Bullpen Depth Crisis and 2027 Auditions

Pitching remains the Cardinals' largest weakness after a 4.54 bullpen ERA and 30 blown saves. Mathews appears to have earned a 2027 rotation opportunity, with Pallante, Leahy, and McGreevy competing for additional roles while Liberatore remains uncertain; the offseason hub reiterates that proven rotation and late-inning reinforcements are priorities.