Cardinals Slugger’s Return Timeline Announced Following Milestone Recovery Step
Despite missing a few key players, the St. Louis Cardinals are attempting to maintain their lead and compete in a tight race in the National League Central.
Unfortunately, the Cardinals have suffered numerous injuries this season, making their efforts to rebound from last year’s disastrous season much more difficult.
Fortunately, a key member of St. Louis’ offence is making significant progress on his road to rehabilitation and has estimated when he will return.
“Former (Chicago Cubs) and current (Cardinals) catcher Willson Contreras is not on this trip to Wrigley Field,” MLB.com’s John Dention announced Friday. “Instead, he’s at Busch Stadium today for his first full batting practice.” Contreras has only hit off a tee and performed coach flips thus far. “He hopes to return by early July.”
Contreras suffered a severe injury in early May when New York Mets slugger J.D. Martinez accidently whacked the Cardinals’ catcher’s left forearm on a swing, fractured it.
The 32-year-old was hitting.In 31 games with St. Louis, he hit 280 with 17 extra-base hits, six home runs, 12 RBIs, and a.949 OPS before being hurt.
The three-time All-Star was unquestionably the Cardinals’ most potent hitter up to that point, and the St. Louis lineup has struggled without his slugging power.
It’s impressive and reassuring to learn that he’s already practicing batting despite suffering such a severe injury.
Having Contreras back will be significant for the Cardinals’ momentum, as they finally appear to be clicking on offence. Hopefully, he’ll be back in time to help St. Louis establish themselves as buyers before the trade deadline.
