The Cardinals and Wainwright agreed to a one-year contract that permits Wainwright to remain with the only big-league club he’s known, for a 15th season in the organization. Only Bob Gibson and Jesse Haines have had longer tenures as pitchers with the team. Wainwright, 37, agreed to an undisclosed low base salary, but two sources described how his new contract is rich in incentives. The contract is written in a way that assures he’ll be rewarded regardless of his role — which could be starter or reliever in 2019.
“The biggest part of this was early in the season, in spring, he looked good, and later in the season when he was feeling good, he pitched well,” said general manager Michael Girsch.