Cardinals Suffer First Big Blow of Season

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(New York, NY) — The St. Louis Cardinals have suffered their first big blow of the season.

Manager Oli Marmol has announced that starting pitcher Adam Wainwright will begin the season on the injured list with a groin strain. The injury occured during a weight room workout Tuesday with Team USA during the World Baseball Classic, and the 41-year-old right-hander is likely to miss several weeks.

“Typically means we’ll continue to evaluate over the next few days but no timetable (for a return) a the moment,” Marmol said. “There is a spot in the rotation now open, and we’re going to have to sit down and make sure that we’re not missing anything that goes into that.”

USA pitcher Adam Wainwright (50) reacts after giving a home run to Great Britain outfielder Trayce Thompson (43) during the World Baseball Classic at Chase Field in Phoenix on March 11, 2023.
Baseball World Baseball Classic Opening Day

Wainwright just pitched four innings in a win over Cuba in the World Baseball Classic semifinals on Sunday.

The Cardinals ace has shown diminished velocity throughout the spring, so giving him some extra time to build up his arm strength might not be the worst thing in the world. The 17-year veteran pitched to a 3.72 ERA in 191 2/3 innings last season. 

Wainwright, 41, has said this will be his final season before retiring.

Feb 23, 2023; Jupiter, FL, USA; St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Adam Wainwright (50) poses for a portrait during spring training photo day. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports

Jake Woodford now figures to begin the year with a rotation spot joining Miles Mikolas, Jordan Montgomery, Jack Flaherty, and Steven Matz.

St. Louis opens the regular season at home against the Toronto Blue Jays next Thursday.

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