What's Happening?
The St. Louis Cardinals have received positive news regarding first baseman Alec Burleson, who is expected to return to the lineup on Monday against the Seattle Mariners. Burleson has been sidelined for nine games due to right wrist inflammation but has shown improvement after receiving an injection. He has been participating in on-field workouts and will not require a Triple-A rehab assignment. Burleson has been a key player for the Cardinals, leading the team in batting average and slugging percentage this season. His return is timely as the Cardinals are currently 4.5 games behind the New York Mets for the final NL Wild Card spot, with a record of 72-72.
Why It's Important?
Alec Burleson's return is crucial for the Cardinals as they strive to secure a playoff position. His performance has been instrumental in the team's offensive lineup, boasting career-highs in on-base percentage and OPS. With 16 home runs and 60 RBIs this season, Burleson's presence could bolster the Cardinals' chances in the competitive NL Wild Card race. Additionally, the team is awaiting the return of other key players like Nolan Arenado and Brendan Donovan, making Burleson's comeback a potential catalyst for further recoveries and improved team performance.
What's Next?
The Cardinals will face the Seattle Mariners on Monday, with Burleson expected to rejoin the lineup. The team will continue to monitor the recovery of other injured players, including Nolan Arenado and Brendan Donovan, as they aim to strengthen their roster for the final stretch of the season. The Cardinals' management and coaching staff will likely focus on maintaining player health and optimizing performance to enhance their playoff prospects.
