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Big move, bigger questions: the Cardinals just reshaped their bullpen plans by grabbing a young arm from another organization, and the implications ripple far beyond a single waiver claim. But here's where it gets controversial: does Zak Kent have the raw tools to unlock a steady MLB role, or will control and velocity concerns limit his ceiling in St. Louis? This update breaks down what the trade means for the roster and for Kent’s future in the majors.
The Cardinals announced on Friday that they have claimed right-hander Zak Kent off waivers from the Guardians. With two 40-man vacancies already available, St. Louis now sits at 39 players on the roster. Kent, who will turn 28 in February, made his major league debut with Cleveland last season. He worked 17 2/3 innings out of the Guardians’ bullpen, posting nine earned runs allowed for a 4.58 ERA, along with a 21.1% strikeout rate and a 10.5% walk rate. His fastball sits around the low-to-mid 90s—about 92.6 mph on a four-seamer and 93.6 mph on a sinker that he rarely used. His best breaking balls include a mid-80s slider and an 80-something curve, which have been praised as plus offerings by scouts.
However, Kent’s limited MLB time hasn’t showcased sustained success. In Triple-A last year, he excelled with a 2.84 ERA over 38 innings, yet command remained an issue, evidenced by a 13.2% walk rate. He did miss more than a third of his hitters, recording a strikeout rate exceeding 31% at that level. The consensus has long cited two plus breaking balls as a major strength, but questions linger about whether subpar fastball velocity and inconsistent command can keep those weapons effective at the highest level.
One logistical note: Kent is out of minor league options, meaning the Cardinals cannot simply shuttle him back to Triple-A Memphis next season without first clearing waivers again. There’s no certainty he’ll survive the winter on the 40-man roster, but if he does, he’s poised to compete for a bullpen job in a crowded setup—that competition could involve as many as four, or five if JoJo Romero is moved in a trade as anticipated.
What this means for the Cardinals is a gamble with potential upside: Kent could carve out a useful role if his command sharpens and his velocity remains carryable in longer stints. If not, he joins a long list of arms whose upside meets harsh MLB realities.
What’s your take on this acquisition? Do you view Kent as a potential bullpen fixture, or is this a low-risk depth move with limited upside? Share your thoughts in the comments.
