Now it’s time to see what Reyes can do in a start.

Carlos Martinez is the only Cardinals’ starter who can match Reyes’ 100-mph fastball and wicked curve.

Reyes (1-0, 0.00 ERA through five appearances) will turn 22 on Monday. It would be a good idea for the Cardinals to celebrate his birthday with a place in the starting rotation.

“We've got to be smart,” manager Mike Matheny said when asked if Reyes deserved a start. “We get our back up against the wall (and) we need somebody, he'll be in the conversation.”

The Cardinals don’t have their backs against the wall. An argument can be made the talented young righthander is better set up for success now out of the bullpen.

While conceding that he has always been a starter, Reyes said all the right things Tuesday night. He came off as deferential and mature. He credited catcher Yadier Molina with guiding him.

“Yeah, I’ve always been a starter, but right now I’m focused on relieving and executing pitches,” he said.

Adam Wainwright (2006) and Martinez (2013-14) both showed early in their careers that a future ace can play a crucial role down the stretch and in the playoffs in relief.

Reyes is following in those footsteps quite well, but it’s impossible not to wonder if he can play an even bigger role as a starter.

Jose de Jesus Ortiz @OrtizKicks on Twitter jortiz@post-dispatch.com