With nearly a month left in this disappointing season, the St. Louis Cardinals are struggling to make it to the finish line.
Horrible pitching and waves of injuries have crashed the Cardinals' 2023 season and the ball club is simply hoping to escape this season without losing any assets for 2024.
Fortunately, the most recent list of injury updates shines a positive light on a dark end to the season. The Athletic's Katie Woo shared a slew of updates:
Right-hander Ryan Helsley could be activated Wednesday after a forearm strain has kept him out since June 12.
Outfielder Lars Nootbaar is expected to begin his rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis on the same day.
Left-hander Steven Matz underwent an MRI today but a timeline for recovery/return has yet to be established.
Left-hander Matthew Liberatore has a rehab start with Triple-A Memphis scheduled for Tuesday.
Helsley has been out with a stubborn right forearm injury since June that he hasn't been able to shake amidst multiple attempts to return. A return to the mound for Helsley would be great news for the Cardinals struggling bullpen.
Nootbar was placed on the 10-day injured list after suffering a groin injury and his return could happen as soon as this weekend if all goes well with Triple-A Memphis.
Matz incurred a left lat strain and was placed on the 15-day injured list. Following the results of the MRI, Matz could return as a starter or reliever depending on how many games are left this season.
Liberatore is scheduled to throw 75-80 pitches with Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday after returning from the 15-day injured list due to lower back tightness. His estimated time of return to St. Louis is contingent on Tuesday's performance.
New injuries this late in the season for a struggling St. Louis only add fuel to the fire, but at least the fire isn't going to be going for much longer as key players look to be making returns soon.
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