Contreras Returns to Bolster Cardinals Ahead of Crucial Series
The St. Louis Cardinals received a significant boost ahead of Monday's series opener against the Atlanta Braves, as starting catcher Willson Contreras was activated from the injured list. Contreras' return comes at a pivotal time for the Cardinals, who are currently battling for a wild-card spot in the National League.
Contreras, who had been sidelined since May 7 due to a fractured forearm, is set to make his long-awaited return to big-league action. The injury occurred when he was hit on a swing by New York Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez. Before the unfortunate injury, Contreras had been a formidable presence at the plate, boasting a .280/.398/.551 slash line, along with six home runs and 12 RBIs over his first 31 games. His contributions had been worth an estimated 1.7 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference.
The 32-year-old catcher is in the second year of a lucrative five-year contract with the Cardinals, worth over $87 million. His return is eagerly anticipated, as the Cardinals aim to solidify their position within the highly competitive National League Central division.
In related roster moves, the Cardinals optioned backup catcher Nick Raposo to Triple-A Memphis to make room for Contreras. Raposo had been called up following Iván Herrera's stint on the injured list due to lower back tightness. Currently, Pagés is serving as Contreras' backup until Herrera is ready to return to active duty.
The Cardinals also activated right-handed reliever Nick Robertson from the injured list and optioned him to Triple-A Memphis. These moves reflect the team's strategic adjustments as they continue to navigate the challenges of an MLB season.
At the time of Contreras' injury, the Cardinals were struggling with a 15-21 record, placing them 6.5 games behind in the National League Central. However, they have since made strides, improving to a 39-37 record. Despite the progress, they remain five games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the divisional race. If the season were to end today, the Cardinals would clinch the second of the three National League wild-card spots.
Contreras' return couldn't come at a more critical juncture. The series against the Braves is pivotal, not just for maintaining momentum, but for reinforcing their commitment to competing fiercely in the division.
The spotlight is now on how Contreras will integrate back into the lineup and if he can pick up where he left off. His seasoned presence and batting prowess will be key as the Cardinals navigate the remaining months of the season. Pagés, while serving as the backup, will also play a crucial role as the team waits for Herrera's return.
The Cardinals' focus now shifts to leveraging Contreras' return to fortify their lineup and sustain their competitive edge. With the added depth and the bolstered roster, St. Louis will look to make a strong statement in their upcoming matchups. The anticipation among fans and teammates alike is palpable, as Contreras' comeback promises to be a game-changer for the Cardinals' campaign.