Cards’ perfect fit in bullpen

The 24-year-old right-hander leads the major leagues with 34 saves in his first season as the closer is a perfect fit for the St.

“You guys have seen his demeanor, whether it’s on the mound or in the clubhouse afterward, it’s pretty consistent when he shuts the door and when he’s had struggles,” manager Mike Matheny told reporters.

Jason Isringhausen had a matter-of-fact demeanor and made it a point to be at his locker stall and face the music after the blown saves.

He has been a key piece ever since for the defending National League champions, who were a game back in the Central Division entering Monday after taking two of three from first-place Milwaukee over the weekend.

Rosenthal has been durable, leading the team with 51 appearances.

Rosenthal struggled with control early in the season, and walked 26 batters in his first 42 1/3 innings.

Matheny said the job is still new for Rosenthal, who was the setup man before last September.

Rosenthal has made eight consecutive saves since July 9, three of them against the Brewers, and side-arming setup man Pat Neshek was a National League All-Star.