Cards shift rotation for two Wainwright starts

ST. LOUIS -- Cardinals manager Mike Matheny will again mix up the rotation next week, this time flipping Shelby Miller and Adam Wainwright's starts, so that Wainwright returns to the mound twice before the All-Star break, including next Sunday in Chicago.

Matheny said he discussed the change with Wainwright beforehand to gauge his preference in getting the additional start versus possibly missing out on the opportunity to pitch in the Midsummer Classic.

"He was adamant with the fact that he would love to have two starts and he knows what that does for our club," Matheny said. "Not undermining or demeaning the value of being on the All-Star team or starting the All-Star Game, he was very clear that he wants to do what he can around here to help us win."

When the decision to bump Wainwright up in the rotation was made, both Matheny and the ace right-hander assumed that it would take Wainwright out of consideration for pitching in the All-Star Game. But a recent rule in the Collective Bargaining Agreement states otherwise.

Wainwright, by rule, will still be permitted to throw a maximum one inning in the All-Star Game. He also will have the option of giving up his roster spot to another pitcher if he chooses not to play.

The Cardinals have not commented on whether they'll allow Wainwright the opportunity to pitch in the game at Citi Field on July 16. Alerted of the revised rule, Wainwright said he would like the opportunity to pitch. Wainwright will make this decision as well with the team's best interest in mind.

"The first thought is it's cool to pitch in the game, obviously," Wainwright said. "But I think what's more important is what's going on inside this clubhouse and can I help the team in that capacity. I think I can and I think our staff has trust in me to do that as well. Two more starts before the break gives us a good chance to win those games."

The Cardinals can then rework their rotation again after the break.