ST. LOUIS, MO — An unexpected decision. Erick Fedde, a former KBO star who was considered a “strategic card” for the Cardinals at the beginning of the season, was officially cut from the team’s roster in a move that shocked the baseball world on the evening of July 23 (local time).
“I did bad. There’s no other excuse,” Fedde admitted bitterly in a short press conference after the bad news.
A season… backwards
Signing a $15 million/2-year contract with the Cardinals after “destroying” the KBO with the NC Dinos, Fedde was expected to be a solid cog in the main pitching rotation. But the bitter reality: after 20 appearances, Fedde only achieved 3 wins – 10 losses, 5.22 ERA, and a series of games “crushed” right from the first innings.
The game that decided the fate? That “crushed” 2-9 loss to the Rockies, where Fedde allowed 7 runs in just 3 innings, which finally exhausted the coaching staff’s patience.
Was Fedde’s position pre-selected?
Shortly after the DFA decision was announced, the Cardinals recalled Andre Granillo, a young pitcher who was only 25 years old but had impressive stats with an ERA of 1.35 and one save in his first 5 MLB games. This was not just a quick fix but an affirmation: the Cardinals were shifting strategy – betting on youth.
In addition, Michael McGreevy, a talent from the farm team, will officially be given the starting pitching spot in the rotation. Head coach Oli Marmol said bluntly: “This is the time to show that we are not afraid of change. And McGreevy is the right choice.”
Another Fedde in Korea
The name Fedde once caused a stir in the KBO last season when he went 20-6, 2.00 ERA, 209 strikeouts – considered the unofficial pitching MVP. But the difference in environment, opponents and pressure in MLB seems to be a big psychological barrier that prevents him from being able to repeat that form.
“I don’t want to blame. I’m just not good enough here,” – Fedde honestly said.
Financial risk and a tough message
Fedde still has a year left on his contract worth $7.5 million in 2026, but the team is willing to “swallow the bitterness” to clear the way. With the DFA (designated for assignment) move, the Cardinals have 5 days to find a trade partner or Fedde will have to accept a franchise/release.
The message from the board is clear: No one is untouchable. No results, no life.
What lies ahead?
The Cardinals are languishing in the bottom half of the NL Central and a wild card seems out of reach. In that context, “rejuvenating” the pitching rotation is the only way to avoid losing the season.
The introduction of Granillo, McGreevy, or even prospects like Sem Robberse or Tekoah Roby into the rotation could signal a ruthless overhaul.
“There will be times when decisions are painful. This is one of them — but it is necessary,” said general manager John Mozeliak in a statement after the shocking decision.