In a critical move ahead of a pivotal series against the Atlanta Braves, the St. Louis Cardinals activated catcher Willson Contreras from the injured list. This marks Contreras' first return to the major leagues since fracturing his forearm on May 7, which had sidelined him for an extended period.
Contreras' Return
Contreras, 32, has been a significant force for the Cardinals this season, boasting an impressive slash line of .280/.398/.551 with six home runs and 12 RBIs over just 31 games. Before his unfortunate injury, his contributions were valued at an estimated 1.7 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), according to Baseball Reference. The injury occurred in a game against the New York Mets, where Contreras was hit by a swing from designated hitter J.D. Martinez.
The activation of Contreras comes at a crucial juncture for the Cardinals, who, as of Monday's game, hold a 39-37 record and are five games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central. At the time of his injury, the team was struggling with a 15-21 record and sat 6.5 games back in the division. The team's improved position in the standings underscores the importance of maintaining momentum as they push for a playoff berth.
Roster Adjustments
In corresponding moves, the Cardinals optioned backup catcher Nick Raposo to Triple-A Memphis. Raposo had been called up recently due to Iván Herrera's stint on the injured list with lower back tightness. With Herrera's return still pending, Errol Pagés will serve as Contreras' backup for the time being.
The Cardinals also activated right-handed reliever Nick Robertson off the injured list, but he too was optioned to Triple-A Memphis. These roster adjustments reflect the team's strategic maneuvering to ensure they have a strong lineup for the upcoming series and the remainder of the season.
Season Outlook
If the season were to conclude today, the Cardinals would secure a spot as the second of three National League wild-card teams. The return of Contreras is expected to provide a substantial boost to the Cardinals' lineup as they face the Braves, a series that could have significant implications for their postseason aspirations.
Contreras' presence behind the plate not only solidifies the defense but also enhances the offensive depth, giving the Cardinals a dual threat. His experience and skill set are integral to the Cardinals' strategy, particularly as they navigate the challenges of the latter half of the season and contend for a playoff position.
Looking Ahead
As Willson Contreras resumes his role, the Cardinals' focus shifts to sustaining their improved performance levels and securing their place as a formidable contender within the division. The series against the Braves will be a litmus test for their current form and ability to compete against top-tier teams.
With Contreras back in action, supported by Pagés and potentially Herrera in the near future, the Cardinals are poised to make a strong push. The coming weeks will be telling as they strive to capitalize on their current standing and fortify their playoff hopes.