St. Louis Cardinals Activate Willson Contreras and Eye Playoff Push
The St. Louis Cardinals are set to receive a significant boost with the return of catcher Willson Contreras, who has been activated from the injured list ahead of their series opener against the formidable Atlanta Braves. Contreras is back in the lineup after a lengthy absence due to a fractured forearm sustained on May 7. This marks his first appearance at the major league level since that injury.
In a corresponding roster move, the Cardinals have optioned backup catcher Nick Raposo to Triple-A Memphis. Raposo had been filling in following an injury to Iván Herrera, who was sidelined with lower back tightness. With Herrera still on the mend, Pagés is set to serve as Contreras’ backup until Herrera can return to form.
Additionally, right-handed reliever Nick Robertson has been activated off the injured list but has also been sent down to Triple-A Memphis. This strategic shuffle aims to fine-tune the Cardinals' roster as they enter a crucial phase of the season.
Prior to his forearm injury, Contreras was performing at an exceptional level. The 32-year-old catcher boasted an impressive .280/.398/.551 slash line, amounting to a 167 OPS+ with six home runs and 12 runs batted in over 31 games. His contributions were valued at an estimated 1.7 Wins Above Replacement, highlighting his critical role in the Cardinals’ lineup.
Contreras’ injury occurred in an unfortunate incident when he was struck by a swing from New York Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez. Despite this setback, Contreras' return is highly anticipated and comes at a pivotal time for St. Louis.
Signed to a five-year deal worth over $87 million, Contreras is in the second year of his tenure with the Cardinals. His absence was deeply felt in a season where the team has had its ups and downs. At the time of his injury, the Cardinals held a 15-21 record and were 6.5 games behind in the National League Central.
Fast forward to today, and the Cardinals have managed to improve their standing considerably. With a 39-37 record, they now sit five games behind the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. If the season were to end today, St. Louis would clinch the second of three National League wild-card spots, a testament to their resilience in battling through adversity.
As the Cardinals gear up for a critical series against the Braves, the return of Contreras could not be more timely. His presence behind the plate and in the batting order is expected to provide a substantial boost to the team's performance.
With Pagés taking on the backup catcher role, the Cardinals are placing their focus on sustaining the momentum they have built and competing fiercely within their division. Contreras’ leadership and skill set will be crucial as they navigate the remaining schedule and make a push for the playoffs.
The stage is set for a thrilling stretch of games, and all eyes will be on Willson Contreras as he makes his much-anticipated return. The Cardinals and their fans will be hoping that his comeback will spark a strong run toward October and beyond.