The St. Louis Cardinals announced that first baseman Willson Contreras will miss the remainder of the season due to a shoulder injury. The team placed Contreras on the 10-day injured list on March 15, 2024, following an examination that revealed a mild shoulder strain. This injury follows his exit during the seventh inning of Monday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds, where he experienced tightness in his right biceps.
This season marked Contreras’s third with the Cardinals, where he transitioned to first base after spending the previous nine years primarily as a catcher. Throughout the 2024 season, he demonstrated strong performance, finishing with a batting average of .257, alongside 20 home runs and a career-high 80 RBIs over 135 games. His ability to adapt to a new position has been a notable aspect of his career, contributing to the team significantly.
A three-time All-Star during his tenure with the Chicago Cubs, Contreras has accumulated a career batting average of .257, with a total of 172 home runs and 548 RBIs across 1,078 games. His experience and leadership have been pivotal for the Cardinals this season.
In response to Contreras’s injury, the Cardinals have recalled infielder Jose Fermin from Triple-A Memphis. The 26-year-old previously played in 23 games for the Cardinals earlier this season, posting a batting average of .298, along with one home run and five RBIs. His return to the major league roster will provide additional depth to the team as they navigate the remainder of the season without Contreras.
As the Cardinals adjust their lineup, the impact of Contreras’s absence will be felt both on and off the field. The team will be looking to maintain their competitive edge as they continue their campaign in Major League Baseball.
