Cardinals: Fans shouldn’t freak out over Miles Mikolas update

Miles Mikolas’ injury took the Cardinals by surprise, but he’ll be fine.

Mikolas’ 2020 season was cut short due to injury, but he’s still just three years removed from an 18-win campaign in which he featured a 1.07 WHIP and 2.83 ERA. Assuming he can stay healthy, he’s guaranteed a spot in the Cardinals rotation and will be expected to contribute.

His long recovery was expected to take another step in a simulated game on Monday, set to take place on the back fields of Roger Dean Stadium. That didn’t happen, however. Mike Shildt didn’t go into much detail on the reasoning for that decision, other than saying it was out of an abundance of caution.

The 32-year-old threw live batting practice earlier in the week, and the smart bet is on another round of live BP before taking the mound in any sort of real contest — whether it be simulated or a spring training game.

Should Cardinals fans be worried about Miles Mikolas?

Mikolas had surgery for a torn flexor tendon in August. He spent most of the winter in St. Louis recovering under the close eye of the Cardinals medical staff. After his first bullpen session this spring, Mikolas said he was encouraged.

“Felt good,” Mikolas said of the bullpen session. “It was a slight touch and feel, rhythm and tempo. I’m bouncing back well.”

The Cardinals are being extremely cautious with Mikolas, and for good reason. Behind Jack Flaherty, their rotation is extremely volatile, but also talented. If they do this right — and most of their staff remains healthy — they’ll set themselves apart as clear NL Central favorites. Both of those are big ifs, of course.