FILE - In this Sept. 29, 2016, file photo, St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Alex Reyes throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds in St. Louis. As the top pitching prospect in baseball, Reyes was expected to play a vital role on the Cardinals pitching staff last season. However, the flame-throwing right-hander missed the entire season following elbow surgery during spring training, but he’s back and in the best shape of his career and trying to re-establish himself this year.(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)
Jeff RobersonLAS VEGAS • As the Cardinals sift this winter through their options to protect late-game leads, there is one young, internal candidate for a pivotal role who has the Cardinals thinking about how they’ll protect him.