Cardinals unhappy with Martinez's offseason program after shutdown

St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Carlos Martinez is being shut down for two weeks amid concerns surrounding his shoulder.

The team is apparently unhappy that the 27-year-old didn't follow their suggestions for his offseason program, according to Mark Saxon of The Athletic.

Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak said he was concerned that Martinez focused more on weight training than physical therapy. Last season, shoulder issues forced the ace to the bullpen for a spell at the end of the year.

"There’s a history with Carlos’ shoulder, and it would be probably in everybody’s best interest if he maintained a constant or perpetual approach to that program," Mozeliak said.

The club's concern has less to do with the effort involved in Martinez's regimen, and more to do with oversight. Martinez "has his guy" who works with him, Saxon adds.

Limited to 118 2/3 innings in 2018, the two-time All-Star went 8-6 with a 3.11 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, and five saves.

An MRI revealed no damage to the hard tissue in his throwing shoulder, but the team isn't taking any chances. He isn't scheduled to throw again until after a follow-up medical evaluation on March 5. For now, the team is noncommittal about Martinez's role entering the season and whether he will return to the rotation or once again be used as a reliever.