Two Important Cardinals Pieces Reportedly Nearing Return After Suffering Injuries
The St. Louis Cardinals are starting to get healthy.
St. Louis already has seen its fair share of injuries and the 2023 campaign is just beginning. The Cardinals have been without the services of former All-Star shortstop Paul DeJong and longtime hurler Adam Wainwright so far this season. St. Louis also lost outfielder Lars Nootbaar after he jammed his finger on Opening Day.
Although Nootbaar's return is unclear at this time, St. Louis got positive updates on DeJong and Wainwright on Wednesday afternoon, according to The Athletic's Katie Woo.
"Adam Wainwright throws a bullpen tomorrow," Woo said. "Team is not sure if Lars Nootbaar will require a rehab assignment yet. Paul DeJong starts a rehab assignment with Palm Beach tomorrow as well. He'll DH for three at-bats."
DeJong has missed time to open the 2023 season as he deals with a back issue. The 29-year-old suffered a lower back injury early on in spring training and hasn't been able to fully recover and return to the field yet. At one point before Opening Day, he attempted a return and took ground balls, but his lower back flared up and forced him out again.
Wainwright has missed time after suffering a groin strain ahead of the World Baseball Classic finale between Team Japan and Team USA. The 41-year-old is showing progress, although it still may be some time before we see him on the mound at Busch Stadium. Wainwright throwing a bullpen is a sign that he is progressing in his recovery, but he likely will need a few more weeks and potentially a rehabilitation stint in the minor leagues before taking the mound for St. Louis.
All in all both Wainwright and DeJong should be back soon and are making progress. Hopefully Nootbaar is able to follow suit and return to action in the near future. The Cardinals have impressive depth, and the return of the trio will just help the club even more.
Things are looking up for the Cardinals.
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