Cardinals Promote Blewett, Place Romero on IL With Appendicitis

The Cardinals selected the contract of right-hander Scott Blewett, promoting him to the active roster while placing left-hander JoJo Romero on the 15-day injured list due to appendicitis. The move took effect retroactively to July 14. To clear a 40-man spot, the team designated catcher Yohel Pozo for assignment.

Romero's unexpected absence. The 29-year-old Romero's appendicitis diagnosis represents the kind of sudden health crisis that can disrupt a team's bullpen plans mid-season. Appendicitis typically requires surgical intervention and a recovery period, leaving his timeline for return uncertain. The retroactive date suggests Romero's condition may have been flagged earlier, and the team delayed the official move while awaiting clarity on his status.

Blewett gets his opportunity. With Romero sidelined, the Cardinals are turning to Blewett to fill relief innings. Blewett's promotion represents a chance to contribute at the major league level, though whether he remains a permanent fixture or a temporary fill-in depends on both his performance and Romero's recovery trajectory.

Pozo's designation. The Cardinals' decision to designate Pozo rather than another player suggests they had alternative catching depth available or were willing to create flexibility elsewhere. Like many mid-season roster maneuvers, this move balances immediate need against organizational depth considerations.

Looking forward. The timing and nature of Romero's injury adds unpredictability to the team's bullpen composition down the stretch. Bettors should monitor both his performance metrics and any updates on Romero's surgical recovery when assessing bullpen reliability for the Cardinals' remaining games.

Source: original report ↗