Recognizing that there is no exchange rate on strikes — they’re as valuable here as anywhere — Mikolas has announced his return to the majors by pelting the strike zone in his first four starts for the Cardinals. He defeated the Cincinnati Reds for the second time in eight days by throwing four strikes for every one ball in the Cardinals’ 9-2 drubbing of the Reds on Sunday at Busch Stadium. For most of Mikolas’ seven innings, the Cardinals led by, at most, three runs, and he continued to challenge the Reds for his third start without a walk.