URGENT UPDATE: St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Willson Contreras officially began serving a four-game suspension today as the Cardinals face off against the San Francisco Giants. This suspension follows a dramatic ejection on August 25, 2023, when Contreras was tossed from the game for arguing balls and strikes with umpire Derek Thomas.
The controversy escalated when Contreras threw a bat that struck Cardinals hitting coach Brant Brown and scattered a tub of candy onto the field, prompting Major League Baseball to hand down a six-game suspension. However, the penalty was reduced to four games after an appeal.
In a strategic move, the Cardinals have activated backup catcher Yohel Pozo from the seven-day concussion list to fill the void left by Contreras. Manager Oliver Marmol confirmed that Nolan Gorman will step in as the starting first baseman during this suspension.
Meanwhile, Nolan Arenado, the eight-time All-Star third baseman, has rejoined the team after recovering from a right shoulder strain. If all goes well this weekend, Arenado could start a rehab assignment with Double-A Springfield on Tuesday.
Additionally, outfielder Alec Burleson, who has been sidelined with right wrist inflammation since August 29, is on track to return by Monday without needing a rehab assignment. Brandon Donovan, the All-Star second baseman recovering from a left groin strain, has resumed batting practice, although no timeline for his return has been established.
These developments are crucial for the Cardinals as they navigate their current series and aim to maintain momentum in the playoff race. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the situation, especially with key players returning to action.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves and the Cardinals look to overcome these challenges on the field.
