Contreras Returns to Boost Cardinals in Pivotal Series Against Braves
The St. Louis Cardinals have activated catcher Willson Contreras from the injured list just in time for Monday's crucial series opener against the Atlanta Braves. This highly anticipated return marks Contreras' first appearance at the major league level since fracturing his forearm on May 7.
In conjunction with Contreras' activation, the Cardinals have made a few roster adjustments. Backup catcher Nick Raposo has been optioned to Triple-A Memphis. Raposo had been filling in after Iván Herrera was sidelined due to lower back tightness. Now, Pagés will serve as Contreras' backup until Herrera is fit to return.
The Cardinals also reinstated right-handed reliever Nick Robertson from the injured list and subsequently sent him to Triple-A Memphis, maintaining a focus on roster flexibility and tactical preparedness as they enter this critical stage of the season.
Contreras, 32, has had an impactful start to the year, hitting .280/.398/.551 with six home runs and 12 RBIs in his first 31 games before his injury. His performance was valued at an estimated 1.7 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference, underscoring his significance to the team. Notably, Contreras sustained his injury after being struck on a swing by New York Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez.
As the Cardinals' marquee catcher continues into the second year of his lucrative five-year, $87 million deal, his return could not have come at a more opportune moment. At the time of his injury, the Cardinals were struggling with a 15-21 record, sitting 6.5 games behind in the National League Central. Since then, the team has improved their standing remarkably, posting a 39-37 record and narrowing the gap to just five games behind the Milwaukee Brewers.
If the season were to conclude today, the Cardinals would clinch the second of three National League wild-card spots. Contreras' reentry into the lineup provides a substantial boost as St. Louis seeks to sustain their momentum and solidify their position in the playoff race.
The focus now shifts to maintaining their competitive edge within the division. The presence of Contreras behind the plate and his potent bat in the lineup could be the catalyst the Cardinals need to push further up the standings. Pagés will assume the backup catcher responsibilities during this critical juncture, ensuring the Cardinals maintain depth and versatility at the catcher position.
The Cardinals' upcoming series against the Braves is pivotal, offering them a chance to measure their resilience and readiness against one of the strongest teams in the league. With Contreras back in action, all eyes will be on how effectively the Cardinals can leverage his return to bolster their playoff ambitions.