St. Louis Cardinals catcher Willson Contreras has made a huge comeback after fracturing his left forearm earlier this season.
Having returned to play, he’s already making a significant impact with powerful performances, including a two-homer game that helped push the Cardinals closer to playoff contention.
- St. Louis Cardinals catcher Willson Contreras has had his cast removed just days after surgery for a fractured forearm, marking a significant step in his recovery process.
- Contreras hopes to return to the Cardinals before the All-Star break, which would significantly boost the team’s struggling offense.
- Despite Contreras’ absence, the Cardinals have seen positive performances from backup catcher Ivan Herrera, who has stepped up with a strong hitting streak, contributing to the team’s recent improvements.
Significant Recovery Milestone for Cardinals Star Catcher
St. Louis Cardinals catcher Willson Contreras has reached a significant milestone in his recovery from a broken left forearm. He is already back to playing, including a game against the Boston Red Sox without a cast.
Contreras, who fractured his left forearm on May 7, had previously done conditioning work and now started swinging a bat with his right hand.
Given the severity of the Willson Contreras injury, his quick progress is impressive. In just three days after surgery, he removed his cast and began focusing on his recovery.
#STLCards C Willson Contreras, who broke the ulna bone in his left forearm on May 7, is out of a cast. He’s doing conditioning work and he is hopeful that doctors will let him swing a bat with his right hand (top hand on the bat). He said he got the cast off 3 days after surgery.
— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) May 17, 2024
The 32-year-old was off to a fantastic start this season, hitting .280/.398/.551 with six home runs, 11 doubles, and 12 RBIs in 31 games.
Cardinals Struggling But Showing Signs of Improvement
The St. Louis Cardinals have faced numerous challenges this season, including inconsistent performances and significant injuries to key MLB players.
Despite these setbacks, the team has started to turn things around, winning four of their last five games.
Contreras’ return would provide a much-needed boost to the Cardinals’ offense, which has struggled this season.
Backup catcher Ivan Herrera has been filling in for Contreras and performing well. During his current eight-game hitting streak, he is batting .448 with five RBIs.
What Happened to Willson Contreras?
Contreras’ injury occurred during a game against the New York Mets when J.D. Martinez’s swing hit him on the left forearm.
Willson Contreras will leave this game after taking a J.D. Martinez swing to his left arm. pic.twitter.com/mJfiqOBf4t
— Bally Sports Midwest (@BallySportsMW) May 8, 2024
Contreras was forced to exit the game and later underwent successful surgery to repair the fracture.
Martinez expressed his regret over the incident, stating, “You’re expecting to hit a ball and you hit an arm… I felt terrible.”
Following the injury, the Cardinals placed Contreras on the injured list and recalled catcher Pedro Pagés.
Contreras’ absence has been felt deeply, as he was not only the team’s most productive hitter but also an improved receiver behind the plate.
Willson Contreras Returns with a Bang
Contreras has returned to the St. Louis Cardinals, already showcasing his impact with a two-homer game that has reinvigorated the team’s playoff ambitions. His recovery from a forearm fracture was quicker than expected, and his rehabilitation efforts paid off markedly.
Now back in the lineup, Contreras’ presence is a major boost for the Cardinals as they aim to climb the rankings in the National League Central. His early return and the lift he provides could be important in changing the course of their season.
As Contreras continues to regain full strength and conditioning, both he and the Cardinals’ fans are optimistic about the positive influence he will continue to have. His journey back to full activity is closely watched, with high hopes for his continued contribution to the team’s success.
