Among his strikeout victims were Adam Walker, who had a first-inning home run off Adam Wainwright, and third-base prospect Rio Ruiz, who had a three-hit game in the 9-4 Braves loss. Schafer, 30, also drew a walk batting against Braves reliever Blaine Boyer.

Schafer, a left-hander with low- to mid-90s fastball and a sharp slider, has allowed two hits in two scoreless innings with no walks and four strikeouts. Those who follow the Cardinals say he has a chance to make the team as the final pitcher in the bullpen and last guy on the bench — a guy who can play some in the outfield and pinch-run when needed.