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2w ago

Cardinals Activate Lars Nootbaar and Insert Him Into Lineup

His return provides a veteran leadoff left fielder who stabilizes the lineup because a healthy, productive stretch would increase his trade value.

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Aug 6, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; St. Louis Cardinals left fielder Lars Nootbaar (21) hits an RBI double during the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The Cardinals activated Lars Nootbaar from the 60-day injured list on Friday and placed him in the starting lineup as the leadoff hitter in left field.
  • Nootbaar completed a 20-day minor-league rehab that ended with a home run for Triple-A Memphis after offseason surgery to shave bone from both heels.
  • St. Louis made corresponding roster moves tied to the activation by optioning Thomas Saggese to Triple-A, recalling RHP Matt Svanson, and placing Ryan Fernandez on the 15-day injured list.
  • In his season debut Nootbaar had two hits including a double, drove in a run, scored once, and made a running catch in left field during a 10-3 Cardinals win.
  • Beyond the on-field boost, analysts say a healthy two-month stretch could raise Nootbaar’s trade value ahead of the deadline because he has limited arbitration control remaining.