ST. LOUIS -- Cardinals right-hander Carlos Martinez exited the game in the top of the fifth inning Monday night against the Rockies with a right shoulder strain. Martinez was in the midst of his first start since returning from the DL due to a right oblique strain. The game was scoreless when Martinez was removed.
Daniel Poncedeleon replaced Martinez after the Cardinals' athletic trainer, pitching coach Mike Maddox and interim manager Mike Shildt met with Martinez and Cardinals players on the mound following a single by Rockies outfielder Charlie Blackmon.
Martinez's velocity dropped noticeably in the fifth inning.