Cards recall LHP Sam Freeman from Memphis; pitchers Blazek & Wacha optioned to Minors

ST. LOUIS, MO., August 29, 2013 - The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that they have recalled left-handed pitcher Sam Freeman from Memphis (AAA) in advance of the team's seven-game road trip that begins tomorrow night in Pittsburgh. The team also announced that right-handed pitcher Michael Wacha was optioned to Springfield (AA) and that right-handed pitcher Michael Blazek was optioned to Memphis (AAA).

Freeman, 26, has appeared in four games (4.0 IP) for the Cardinals this season, striking out five batters and allowing no runs. He has posted a 7-2 mark with a 2.97 ERA and two saves in 49 games (69.2 IP) for Memphis. Freeman has limited left-handed batters to a .237 BA at Memphis, while righties are hitting just .207.

Wacha fanned seven batters in 4.0 scoreless innings of relief last night vs. Cincinnati. The 22-year-old rookie is 2-0, 3.78 ERA in 10 games (four games started) for the Cardinals and has struck out 37 batters in 33.1 innings pitched.

Blazek worked 1.2 scoreless innings in relief last night and has struck out 10 batters in 11 relief appearances for the Cardinals this season.