Even though Carlos Martinez has yet to throw a "quality start" in four attempts, mostly because he has yet to pitch more than five innings, his ownership percentage continues to rise in Fantasy -- a trend I'm both surprised and encouraged to see.
Because while his performance may not have improved his chances of sticking in the role, other developments within the Cardinals organization have. Specifically, Jaime Garcia's decision to have season-ending surgery on his left shoulder should buy Martinez at least a few more weeks in the role even with Joe Kelly on the verge of returning from a hamstring injury.
Eventually, Michael Wacha will return from a shoulder injury of his own, but he hasn't even begun throwing yet. By the time he's ready to go, someone else may be hurt. Or the Cardinals may choose to send Kelly to the bullpen or Shelby Miller to the minors, depending on how he's throwing. They have options.
Martinez now has an extended chance to make that decision as difficult as it can be. He'll continue to build up his pitching count, eventually getting to the point where he can throw six innings consistently. And once he's stretched out, the Cardinals may not want to shorten him again, especially if he's pitching up to his capabilities.
To me, he's in a similar situation to Kevin Gausman and has that kind of upside, making him worth a flier in all leagues while the job is his.