UPDATED: Mike Matheny approved Cards’ choice to draft his son

Aaron Gleeman

Jun 6, 2012, 7:20 PM EDT

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Last week Mike Matheny said he thought it would be a bad idea for the Cardinals to draft his son, high school center fielder Tate Matheny, because “it would be too tough” and he didn’t want to ruin the good relationship they have.

Matheny specifically cited the example of longtime Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan and his son Chris Duncan, who was St. Louis’ first-round pick in 1999. Chris Duncan played parts of five seasons for the Cardinals and didn’t seem to have any big problems working with his dad, but Matheny explained: “I know that it was awkward. He was a good player. He handled it well, but it made it tougher.”

Today the Cardinals drafted Tate Matheny anyway, using their 23rd-round pick on the manager’s son. It might end up being a moot point, as Matheny is committed to Missouri State and most reports have him playing college ball unless offered a big bonus to sign.