Rosenthal, Wacha slated to pitch Saturday

JUPITER, Fla. -- Trevor Rosenthal and Michael Wacha, two of the organization's more exciting young right-handers, are scheduled to pitch in the Cardinals' Grapefruit League opener against the Marlins on Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 12:05 p.m. CT.

Both pitchers will be limited to about 40 pitches, meaning that they will toss two innings apiece, if efficient. From there, they will build up their pitch count in subsequent spring starts.

For Rosenthal, the outing will mark his first in a game since he shined in the 2012 postseason. Ranked as the club's No. 4 prospect, according to MLB.com, the right-hander threw 8 2/3 scoreless innings out of the 'pen during the playoffs, and he impressed enough at the Major League level last year to get an opportunity to compete for a big league rotation spot out of camp.

Wacha, the Cardinals' top Draft pick in 2012, prepared for his first Grapefruit League appearance with a live batting practice session on Wednesday. It was the second time this spring that Wacha has thrown live BP.

Though Wacha -- the Cards' No. 6 prospect -- is not competing for a big league roster spot, this will be his first opportunity to pitch in a game environment in front of the Cardinals' Major League coaching staff.

Matheny has not announced his pitching plans beyond Saturday. He also has not confirmed which position players will make an appearance in the Grapefruit League opener.