Cardinals intend to get Rosenthal more work

ST. LOUIS — Concerned that sporadic work is the culprit behind Trevor Rosenthal’s recent command troubles, manager Mike Matheny said he will be more intentional in getting his closer into games even if the appearances come in non-save spots.

That was the impetus behind pitching Rosenthal with a six-run lead during the ninth inning of Saturday’s 6-2 win over the D-backs. But instead of getting Rosenthal a feel-good outing, Matheny watched the right-hander labor through a 34-pitch inning in which he allowed a pair of runs on four hits. The appearance was so long, in fact, that it left Rosenthal’s status uncertain for Sunday’s series finale.

Rosenthal, who had thrown once over the previous five days, has now had four 30-plus pitch outings in his 15 appearances in 2016. Last season, he reached 30 pitches once in 68 games. The Cardinals contend that the lack of sharpness — Rosenthal has walked nine in six innings this month — has something to do with the lack of consistent opportunities.

Rosenthal is on pace to appear in a modest 57 games after averaging 71 appearances over the last three seasons.

“It’s just …

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