Imagine being a top draft pick, only to have your career derailed by injuries just as you’re hitting your prime. That’s the harsh reality for Zack Thompson, the Cardinals’ left-handed pitcher who’s been battling more than just opponents on the mound. Last March, a torn lat muscle sidelined him for the entire 2025 season, but that wasn’t even the full extent of his woes. According to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Thompson also underwent arthroscopic surgery on his throwing shoulder in August—a procedure described as a ‘cleanup’ but one that’s significantly delayed his return to the mound. While he’s currently playing catch and easing back into throwing, his absence from Spring Training activities suggests he’ll likely start the 2026 season on the injured list. But here’s where it gets interesting: the Cardinals haven’t placed him on the 60-day IL yet, which could hint at optimism that he’ll return sooner than expected—perhaps within the first two months of the season.
And this is the part most people miss: Thompson’s struggles aren’t just physical. Now 28, the former 19th overall pick in the 2019 draft has yet to find consistent success in the majors or minors. After missing the 2020 season due to the canceled minor league schedule, he’s bounced between Triple-A Memphis and the big leagues, posting a 4.50 ERA over 118 major league innings and a concerning 9.53 ERA in 2024. His minor league numbers aren’t much better, with a 5.92 ERA and a sky-high 13.9% walk rate. While he’s primarily been a starter in Triple-A, he’s only started 12 of his 52 MLB games, leaving his role in the Cardinals’ future uncertain.
But here’s the controversial question: Should the Cardinals continue to invest in Thompson as a starter, or is it time to shift him to the bullpen? With the team in a rebuild phase, there’s little risk in giving him more opportunities in the rotation to see if he can turn things around. After all, late bloomers aren’t unheard of in baseball. Plus, Thompson still has one minor league option remaining, thanks to spending all of 2025 on the MLB injured list. However, patience isn’t infinite, especially in a sport where prospects are plentiful. What do you think? Is Thompson worth the wait, or is it time for the Cardinals to explore other options? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
