What's Happening?
The St. Louis Cardinals have announced that three of their players, Lars Nootbaar, Brendan Donovan, and Ivan Herrera, have recently undergone surgical procedures. Nootbaar had surgery on both heels to address Haglund's deformities, while Donovan underwent
a sports hernia repair. Herrera had surgery to remove bone spurring from his elbow. The recovery timelines for these players remain uncertain. Nootbaar, who played a career-high 135 games this season, struggled with his performance at the plate, posting a career-low 96 wRC+. Donovan, despite dealing with multiple injuries, had a strong season with career-best marks in batting average and slugging percentage. Herrera, who battled several injuries, finished the season with a solid .284/.373/.464 slash line.
Why It's Important?
The surgeries for Nootbaar, Donovan, and Herrera are significant as they impact the Cardinals' roster and player availability for the upcoming season. Nootbaar and Donovan are both heading into arbitration, with projected salaries of $5.7 million and $5.4 million, respectively. Their health and recovery will be crucial for the Cardinals as they plan their lineup and strategy for the next season. Herrera's performance and versatility, including his ability to play as a designated hitter, make him a valuable asset to the team. The Cardinals will need to manage their depth and player rotations effectively to maintain competitiveness.
What's Next?
The Cardinals will monitor the recovery of Nootbaar, Donovan, and Herrera closely to ensure they are ready for the next season. The team may need to explore trade options or roster adjustments to compensate for any prolonged absences. The arbitration process for Nootbaar and Donovan will also be a key focus as the team navigates financial considerations. Fans and stakeholders will be interested in how the Cardinals manage these challenges and prepare for the 2026 season.
