What's Happening?
The St. Louis Cardinals have decided to maintain Tink Hence in a starting pitcher role despite previous discussions about potentially moving him to the bullpen for health reasons. According to Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol, the idea of transitioning Hence to a relief role has not been seriously considered at this time. This decision comes after Hence was limited to just eight appearances in the 2025 season due to a lat strain and shoulder impingement. Despite these setbacks, Hence has been working on mechanical changes and has adopted a new stretching and recovery plan. Entering spring training healthy, the 23-year-old pitcher remains on the 40-man roster but has yet to advance beyond Double-A Springfield. It is anticipated that he may start the 2026
season back in Springfield.
Why It's Important?
The decision to keep Tink Hence as a starter is significant for the Cardinals as it reflects their confidence in his potential despite his past injuries. This move could impact the team's pitching strategy and depth, especially if Hence can overcome his durability issues and contribute effectively. For Hence, remaining a starter provides him with the opportunity to develop his skills further and prove his capability at higher levels of play. The Cardinals' choice also highlights the importance of player health management and the balance teams must strike between maximizing player performance and ensuring long-term health. If Hence can stay healthy and perform well, it could bolster the Cardinals' rotation and provide them with a valuable asset.
What's Next?
As the 2026 season approaches, Tink Hence is expected to begin the year in Double-A Springfield, where he will have the chance to demonstrate his readiness for higher levels of competition. The Cardinals will likely monitor his health and performance closely, assessing whether he can handle a full season's workload. Should Hence show improvement and durability, he may earn a promotion to Triple-A or even a call-up to the major leagues. The team's management will continue to evaluate his progress and make adjustments as necessary to ensure his development aligns with the organization's long-term goals.
