Home / Sports / Cardinals Roster Set: Nootbaar IL Decision Looms
Cardinals Roster Set: Nootbaar IL Decision Looms
24 Mar
Summary
- JJ Wetherholt made the big league club for Opening Day.
- Nelson Velázquez was sent down, opening up outfield spots.
- Nootbaar's IL status remains uncertain, potentially until May.
The St. Louis Cardinals have made significant progress in finalizing their Opening Day roster, with starting rotation and bullpen decisions already settled. Key positional player decisions were largely concluded on Monday.
Top prospect JJ Wetherholt has officially earned a spot on the major league club for Opening Day. In the outfield, Thomas Saggese, Nathan Church, and José Fermín have made the team, while Nelson Velázquez has been optioned to the minors.
Despite these advancements, the timeline for Lars Nootbaar's return remains uncertain, as he will not be ready for Opening Day. Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom indicated that the team is evaluating whether to place Nootbaar on the 60-day Injured List, a move that would sideline him until at least the end of May.
This potential IL stint would create a roster spot but guarantees a lengthy absence for a key player. The club is also considering how Nootbaar's health might impact potential trade value later in the season. A decision on his injury status is expected within the next few days.
