Addressing reporters at Busch Stadium on Sunday, Cardinals principal owner Bill DeWitt Jr. and president of baseball operations John Mozeliak praised the effort and devotion former manager Mike Matheny gave to the club but were frank in their assessment of the club's current momentum. The latter, they explained, led to the decision to dismiss Matheny and install bench coach Mike Shildt as interim manager on Saturday night.
"Unfortunately our club has not played up to its capabilities," said DeWitt, "and it was time for a new voice and new leadership. I think with Mike Shildt we have an opportunity to move forward into the second half.