St. Louis Cardinals Get Concerning Injury News On 2 Key Players

The St. Louis Cardinals have been struck by concerning injury news regarding key players Lars Nootbaar and Tommy Edman.

Nootbaar, the projected starting left fielder, faces an uncertain timeline for his return after sustaining two nondisplaced rib fractures following a fall during a game in Florida.

This injury not only threatens his participation in the season-opening series against the Los Angeles Dodgers but also casts doubts on his availability for subsequent matchups, including potential encounters with friends Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

#STLCards POBO John Mozeliak on his team potentially opening the season without starting outfielders Tommy Edman (wrist) & Lars Nootbaar (ribs): “Not ideal. The level of concern is real. But you always have to remind yourself that (Opening Day) isn’t the entire season ...

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— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) March 8, 2024

The 26-year-old had a career-best season last year, posting a .261/.367/.418 triple-slash line, with 14 home runs, 46 RBIs, 11 stolen bases, and 74 runs scored across 117 games played.

Meanwhile, infielder Tommy Edman's recovery from wrist surgery has been slower than anticipated, raising questions about his readiness for Opening Day.

His struggles at the plate, particularly from the right side as a switch-hitter, have compounded the Cardinals' concerns, leaving them with uncertainties in their starting lineup.

#STLCards manager Oli Marmol said the club is evaluating the rehabilitation plan for CF Tommy Edman, who is still experiencing pain in his surgically repaired right wrist.

More clarity is coming this afternoon, Marmol said.

— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) March 9, 2024

The 28-year-old Edman posted a .248/.307/.399 triple-slash line, with 13 home runs, 47 RBIs, 27 stolen bases, and 69 runs scored over 137 games played last season.

Manager Oliver Marmol finds himself exploring replacement options such as Dylan Carlson and Alec Burleson for the outfield, while considering the potential roles of speedsters Michael Siani and Victor Scott II to mitigate the impact of Nootbaar and Edman's potential absences.

The Cardinals remain hopeful for swift recoveries for Nootbaar and Edman, recognizing the importance of their contributions to the team's success in the early stages of the season. Photo Credit:  Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports