By Chris Brown – STL Baseball Today
With two hits in three pinch-hit at-bats, including a two-run home run, since returning from the disabled list less than a week ago, Matt Adams has shown he’s ready to contribute offensively down the stretch for the Cardinals. Thought to be out for the season following surgery to repair a torn quad in late May, Adams, who went through defensive and baserunning drills prior to Sunday’s game, told Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch he was “very, very close” to returning to the starting lineup.
Does that mean the first baseman could be back in the lineup when the Cardinals kick off a three game series in Milwaukee on Tuesday?
“I would say so,” Adams told Hummel.
His manager agreed that the 27-year-old could be in the lineup for the series opener, saying, “Tuesday might be a situation where’s he’s ready to go.”
HOLLIDAY ALSO NEARING RETURN
Adams may not be the only key player activated in the next few days, as GM John Mozeliak told Jim Hayes of Fox Sports Midwest that he’s hopeful Matt Holliday will be activated some time during the series against the Brewers. Working his way back from his second quad strain this season, the veteran outfielder will be ready to play in the field nearly everyday upon his return, Mozeliak told Hayes.
Matheny said Holliday will run again on Tuesday before the team decides what action to take next.
A few more notes, with information from Hummel:
WAINWRIGHT’S FINAL HURDLE?
Another Cardinal ruled out for the year earlier this season, Adam Wainwright is still working to contribute to the team this season after tearing his Achilles tendon back in April. The 34-year old said he believes his final hurdle will be meeting with doctors in roughly a week when the redbirds return to St. Louis.
GRICHUK THROWING
Outfielder Randal Grichuk, who’s been limited due to a right elbow issue, is throwing on a regular basis and is not far from returning to the field on a semi-regular bases. Despite two stints on the DL this year, the 24-year-old is still near the top in many offensive categories among National League rookies.
Follow @STLBBToday on Twitter
Feature image used under Creative Commons by Keith Allison. No changes made. Image license.
