So close. We were so close. Albert Pujols retired. Yadier Molina is moving on. But Adam Wainwright? He’s coming back to frustrate the hell out of Cubs fans for an 18th season in 19 years. Honestly, it’s starting to feel personal.
Of course, why would he retire? As much as you might have expected him to wear down (… years ago), he just capped off another quality season: 32-starts, 191.2 IP with a 3.71 ERA at AGE 40. And he did that one year after 32 starts, 206.1 IP and a 3.05 ERA. He’s basically at the top of his game, somehow. Just check out his rankings between 2021 and 2022 combined.
Innings Pitched: 398.0 (2nd)
Games Started: 64 (t-2nd)
BB/9: 2.35 (19th)
HR/9: 0.84 (8th)
ERA: 3.37 (t-16th … with Gerrit Cole)
Wainwright is just one of those pitchers who’s always been able to change his game and find new ways to succeed, and there’s nothing we can do about it but be impressed. For at least one more season, he’ll be wearing Cardinal red. We’ll update this post with the terms of his deal (whatever they may be), when they’re available. Sigh. I just want this to be over.
Update: Here’s a little more context from Derrick Goold, but still no terms yet. The team is apparently meeting with the media soon.