Imagine being plucked from one team and handed a golden opportunity to shine with another—all in a single draft. That’s exactly what happened to Matt Pushard, a former University of Maine closer and Brewer native, who recently found himself at the center of Major League Baseball’s Rule 5 draft. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this draft a lifeline for overlooked talent or a high-stakes gamble for teams? Let’s dive in.
Pushard, who spent last season pitching for the Miami Marlins’ AAA affiliate in Jacksonville, is now gearing up for a fresh start with the St. Louis Cardinals. The Rule 5 draft, an annual event, allows teams to claim unprotected minor league players for $100,000—but there’s a catch. The player must stay on the new team’s 26-man Major League roster for the entire season, or they’re placed on waivers. If they clear waivers, they’re offered back to their original team for $50,000. It’s a high-pressure situation, but Pushard, who led America East with nine saves in his final UMaine season, is no stranger to challenges.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 250 pounds, the 28-year-old had a standout first full AAA season, posting a 4-5 record with a 3.61 ERA. He notched four saves, five holds, and struck out 73 batters in 62 ⅓ innings, allowing just 49 hits and three home runs across 49 appearances. His dominance was clear: opponents batted only .214 against him, and he allowed one or zero earned runs in 43 of those outings, including 36 scoreless performances. And this is the part most people miss: Pushard’s consistency and versatility—he throws a 95-96 mph four-seam fastball, a slider, change-up, curve, and a newly added sweeper—make him a valuable asset.
Pushard credits the Marlins for giving him his professional start, saying, ‘Without them, I wouldn’t be in this situation.’ But he’s eager for the chance to pitch at the Major League level with the Cardinals, who’ve expressed confidence in his abilities. ‘They told me they like everything I do and to keep it up,’ he shared. ‘It’s nice to hear they believe in you.’
Looking ahead, Pushard is confident he can secure a spot on the Cardinals’ roster during spring training. After all, he led the Marlins in saves during spring training last year, striking out four batters in just 3 ⅓ innings. ‘I faced top prospects and even big leaguers on rehab assignments,’ he noted. ‘I know I can compete.’
Here’s the bold question: Is Pushard’s move to the Cardinals a stepping stone to stardom or a risky bet? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Off the field, Pushard has been preparing for spring training while enjoying time with his wife, Sophia, and loved ones. Soon, he’ll head to the Cardinals’ spring training complex in Jupiter, Florida—ironically shared with the Marlins. ‘I’ve got to keep doing what I’ve been doing,’ he said. ‘Consistency and drive got me here, and I can’t let up now.’
Pushard’s journey is a reminder that opportunities like these are rare. ‘I’ve worked my entire life for this,’ he added. ‘I can’t take it for granted.’ Whether as a starter or reliever, his goal is simple: help the Cardinals win. ‘They do things the right way, and I’m excited to be part of it,’ he said.
Meanwhile, Pushard’s former UMaine teammate, Cody Laweryson, is also on the move. After being waived by the Minnesota Twins, the 27-year-old pitcher was picked up by the Los Angeles Angels. Laweryson made his Major League debut last season, allowing just one earned run in five relief appearances. Prior to that, he posted a 2.86 ERA across AA and AAA levels, striking out 45 batters in 44 innings.
As Pushard enters his fifth pro season and Laweryson his seventh, both are poised to make waves. But the bigger question remains: Will the Rule 5 draft prove to be their ticket to long-term success? Only time will tell. What’s your take? Let us know below!
