Woodford allowed two hits and a walk while striking out three in three scoreless innings in Sunday's 9-4 loss to the Pirates.

Woodford was in contention for the fifth spot in the starting rotation right to the end of spring training, but Jordan Hicks ultimately won the job. Woodford's first turn as a long reliever this season was strong after Steven Matz (finger) was hit hard in three innings and developed a blister. The 25-year-old Woodford will continue to operate out of the bullpen, where he'll give the Cardinals a multi-inning option. That will limit his fantasy appeal, as his groundball style doesn't lead to enough strikeouts to make up for his lack of a starting role.