The St. Louis Cardinals are set to welcome back a crucial piece of their lineup, as catcher Willson Contreras returns from the injured list just in time for a critical series against the Atlanta Braves. Contreras, who has been sidelined since May 7 due to a fractured forearm, is expected to make an immediate impact for a Cardinals team in the thick of the National League playoff race.
Contreras' Impact Before Injury
Before his injury, Contreras was showcasing why he is considered one of the premier catchers in Major League Baseball. In the first 31 games of his season, the 32-year-old catcher posted an impressive .280/.398/.551 slash line, with six home runs and 12 RBIs. His offensive contributions were substantial, earning him a 167 OPS+ and contributing an estimated 1.7 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference.
Contreras' injury occurred in an unfortunate incident where he was hit on a swing by New York Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez. This sidelined him in the second year of his hefty five-year, $87 million contract with the Cardinals. At the time of his injury, St. Louis found themselves at a disappointing 15-21 record, trailing by 6.5 games in the National League Central.
Cardinals’ Roster Moves
In anticipation of Contreras' return, the Cardinals made several roster adjustments. Backup catcher Nick Raposo was optioned to Triple-A Memphis. Raposo had been brought in as a stopgap when another catcher, Iván Herrera, required time on the injured list due to lower back tightness. With Herrera's return still pending, Pagés has taken up the mantle as Contreras' backup.
Additionally, the Cardinals activated right-handed reliever Nick Robertson from the injured list, only to option him back to Triple-A Memphis, ensuring they have the most competitive roster for the pivotal series against the Braves.
Current Season Standings
The return of Contreras couldn't come at a better time for St. Louis. Since his departure, the Cardinals have turned their season around, improving to a 39-37 record and narrowing their deficit in the division to just five games behind the Milwaukee Brewers. As of Monday's game, St. Louis holds a spot as the second of three National League wild-card teams, highlighting the importance of sustaining this momentum through the remainder of the season.
Looking Forward
With Contreras back in action, the Cardinals are poised for a potential surge in the standings. His return not only strengthens the lineup but also provides a veteran presence both behind the plate and in the clubhouse. The team is now focused on making the most of their improved standing and competing fiercely within their division.
The upcoming series against the Braves will be a litmus test for the Cardinals, who will need to capitalize on the return of their star catcher. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Contreras can pick up where he left off and propel the Cardinals as they navigate the crucial stretch of their season.
As the race for the playoffs heats up, the Cardinals’ decision to activate Contreras signals their intent to vie for a deep postseason run. With his caliber of play and leadership, St. Louis may find themselves well-positioned to achieve their aspirations.