The explanation the Cardinals provided for how Carlos Martinez reasserted his place in the rotation was a neat, tidy meritocracy, where the team set forth a clear series of requirements for the righthander and he satisfied them, essentially making the decision for the club.
Not every roster decision is that direct.
Not every player’s performance is that persuasive.
As the Cardinals reach their final 24 hours before submitting a 30-man roster for opening day Friday against Pittsburgh, three of their leading prospects at their position remain in camp, and each represents different facets of the considerations teams must face with rookies and rosters.