Chris Carpenter Out For 2013 Season, Possibly Longer [Report]
St. Louis Cardinals ace pitcher Chris Carpenter will potentially miss the entire 2013 season, the team announced Tuesday.
Cards general manager John Mozeliak made the announcement during a press conference, citing continued issues with the health of Carpenter’s right shoulder, neck, and arm.
“Do I envision Carp returning? I would say it’s very unlikely, so no,” Mozeliak said.
Carpenter, who turns 38 in April, was optimistic on his return to mound earlier this year.
“I haven’t had any issues with my throwing or anything this year,” Carpenter said on January 19 while attending the Cardinals’ Winter Warm-Up. “I feel good. My shoulder feels good. I’m looking forward to getting down there and getting to camp early and get going.”
However, the three time All-Star and Cy Young Winner has since told management he experienced setbacks while trying to accelerate his throwing program in preparation for spring training, and multiple sources with further knowledge of the pitcher’s situation have said Carpenter is seriously considering retirement.
MLB.com notes Carpenter’s final appearance in 2012 was on October 21 at AT&T Park. He lasted four innings and allowed five runs (two earned) on six hits in four innings to the Giants, who went on to win that National League Championship Series and the World Series.
For his career, Carpenter has a record of 144-94 and and ERA of 3.76 in 350 games, 332 of which came as a starter.
He’s also thrown 2219.1 innings striking out 1697 batters while walking 627.
In the postseason, he has gone 10-4 with a 3.00 ERA, winning two World Series rings.
Do you think Chris Carpenter’s MLB career is over?
