The St. Louis Cardinals’ season has not gone as planned, and some important decisions will need to be made this winter as the franchise attempts to return to the playoffs.

One of the more pressing questions this winter will concern rotation – whether the club options of two experienced hurlers will be considered.

Regardless, one of the regular players with a club option for 2025 will finish the season after suffering an unfortunate injury in July’s game against the Texas Rangers.

“Roster Moves: Right-hander Lance Lynn was activated from the 15-day IL,” the organization announced Wednesday. “RHP Chris Roycroft was sent to Memphis (AAA).”

Lynn’s right knee injury dates back to July 30, when he pitched five innings against the Rangers – even though he was suffering from his painful condition at the time.

The 37-year-old has posted a record of 6-4 with a 4.06 ERA, a 97-to-41 strikeout-to-walk ratio, a .249 batting average against and a 1.36 WHIP in 106 1/3 innings pitched for St. Louis this season.

With Lynn out of the rotation, the Cardinals were forced to use RHP Andre Pallante, who performed well in the veteran’s absence.

With Lynn’s return, St. Louis now has six starters in its rotation – including LHP Steven Matz in the bullpen, who could be a spot starter through the end of 2024.

The future of the former St. Louis and Cardinals draft pick is unclear given his impending club option. After a season riddled with injuries, it might not be wise to re-sign Lynn. However, when healthy, he’s a solid back-end pitcher, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see the two-time All-Star back at Busch Stadium next year.

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