The St. Louis Cardinals have announced that first baseman Willson Contreras will miss the remainder of the season due to a shoulder injury. Contreras was placed on the 10-day injured list on March 15, 2024, following an injury sustained during a game against the Cincinnati Reds.
Contreras exited the game on March 13 in the bottom of the seventh inning after experiencing tightness in his right biceps. Subsequent imaging revealed a mild shoulder strain affecting the 33-year-old, who has been a significant player for the Cardinals during his third season with the team.
In 135 games this season, Contreras posted a batting average of .257, hitting 20 home runs and achieving a career-high 80 RBIs. This season marked his first as a full-time first baseman after spending the previous nine years primarily as a catcher. Prior to joining the Cardinals, he was a three-time All-Star during his tenure with the Chicago Cubs.
Throughout his career, Contreras has maintained a batting average of .257, accumulating 172 home runs and 548 RBIs over the course of 1,078 games. His contributions have been pivotal to the teams he has played for, and his absence will be felt as the Cardinals continue their campaign.
To fill the gap left by Contreras, St. Louis has recalled infielder Jose Fermin from Triple-A Memphis. Fermin, who is 26 years old, previously played in 23 games for the Cardinals this season, batting .298 with one home run and five RBIs. His return could provide valuable depth for the team as they navigate the challenges ahead without Contreras.
As the season progresses, the Cardinals will need to adapt to this significant loss while looking to maintain their competitive edge in the league.