Cardinals Recall Graceffo, Pushard Placed on IL with Knee Injury

St. Louis makes roster moves to address injuries and bolster bullpen versatility

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:08pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes, conceptually representing the Cardinals' strategic approach to roster management.The Cardinals' strategic roster moves aim to balance short-term needs and long-term player development.Memphis Today

The St. Louis Cardinals have placed right-hander Matt Pushard on the 15-day injured list due to right knee patellar tendonitis, while recalling right-hander Gordon Graceffo from Triple-A Memphis to provide bullpen depth. The team has also initiated a rehab assignment for right-hander Hunter Dobbins as he recovers from ACL surgery.

Why it matters

These roster moves demonstrate the Cardinals' strategic approach to managing injuries and player development, ensuring the team has the necessary depth and versatility to navigate the early stages of the season. Pushard's injury highlights the importance of carefully managing young pitching talent, while Graceffo's recall and Dobbins' rehab assignment showcase the organization's commitment to building a well-rounded pitching staff.

The details

Pushard's debut was cut short by the knee injury, allowing just three earned runs in an inning of work against the Rays. The Cardinals' decision to place him on the IL is a proactive measure to ensure his recovery and long-term success. In a corresponding move, the team recalled Graceffo, who provides the bullpen with a versatile option capable of throwing multiple innings in relief. Graceffo's previous experience with the Cardinals makes him a valuable asset as the team navigates the early season.

  • On April 10, 2026, the Cardinals placed Pushard on the 15-day injured list.
  • Also on April 10, 2026, the Cardinals recalled Graceffo from Triple-A Memphis.
  • The Cardinals have initiated a rehab assignment for Dobbins as he recovers from ACL surgery.

The players

Matt Pushard

A right-handed pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals who was placed on the 15-day injured list with right knee patellar tendonitis.

Gordon Graceffo

A right-handed pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals who was recalled from Triple-A Memphis to provide bullpen depth and versatility.

Hunter Dobbins

A right-handed pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals who is recovering from ACL surgery and has begun a rehab assignment.

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What they’re saying

“These roster moves demonstrate the Cardinals' strategic approach to managing injuries and player development, ensuring the team has the necessary depth and versatility to navigate the early stages of the season.”

— Tish Haag, Internal Consulting Engineer

What’s next

The Cardinals will monitor Pushard's recovery and Dobbins' progress during their respective rehab assignments, with the goal of having both pitchers return to the active roster as soon as they are fully healthy and ready to contribute.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' roster moves highlight the importance of proactive injury management and the value of building a versatile pitching staff. By addressing Pushard's injury and recalling Graceffo, the team demonstrates its commitment to player development and ensuring the long-term success of its pitching corps.