The St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Colorado Rockies to start their three-game series, but the team faced a setback when outfielder Lars Nootbaar left Monday’s game due to a left knee injury. Nootbaar sustained a contusion during the third inning after fouling a pitch off his leg, forcing him to exit the contest early.
Lars Nootbaar was removed from the game with a left knee contusion, sustained when he fouled a pitch off his leg in the third inning. Jordan Walker takes over in RF,
The Athletic‘s Katie Woo said.
Confirmation of Injury and Day-to-Day Status from Team Officials
Following the injury, Nootbaar underwent X-rays on his left knee which revealed no fractures. According to MLB.com’s John Denton, the results were negative, and the Cardinals have listed Nootbaar as day-to-day. Despite the initial impact, he remained in the game for three innings before exiting due to pain and swelling.
X-rays on Lars Nootbaar’s left knee were negative. He is listed by the Cardinals as day-to-day,
Denton said.
He fouled a pitch off his left leg in the third inning, but stayed in the game for three innings before leaving with pain and swelling in the knee.
Nootbaar’s Season Performance and Injury History
This season, Nootbaar has been a key contributor for the Cardinals, appearing in 95 games with a batting line of .227/.324/.375 and delivering 12 home runs, 40 RBIs, four stolen bases, and 17 doubles. However, injuries have frequently interrupted his playing time throughout his five-year major league career. Last season, he participated in only 109 games and prior seasons have seen similar limits on his availability, including 117 games in 2023 and 108 games in 2022.
Implications for the Cardinals’ Playoff Pursuit Amid Injury Concerns
The Cardinals currently hold a 61-59 record, positioning themselves three games behind a National League Wild Card spot. St. Louis is steadily advancing in the playoff race, with only the Cincinnati Reds trailing behind in contention just outside the postseason picture. The sudden injury to Nootbaar caused some concern given his importance to the team, but the discovery that his knee injury is not serious provides some reassurance.
As the situation develops, further updates will be provided, but for now, Nootbaar’s day-to-day status suggests the Cardinals remain hopeful for his quick return.