Cardinals Receive Positive Injury Updates Contreras, Herrera Ahead Playoff Push

St. Louis Cardinals catcher and first baseman Willson Contreras avoided a major injury after being hit in the left hand by a pitch, with X-rays confirming no structural damage and his status listed as day-to-day. Contreras, who has been a key offensive force for the team, sat out Wednesday’s game against the Pirates but returned to the lineup Friday against the Cubs after a brief rest. Meanwhile, the Cardinals are hoping to get Iván Herrera (hamstring) and Jordan Walker (appendicitis) back after the All-Star break, with both players ramping up rehab and seen as crucial contributors for the team's playoff push. The Cardinals, currently in the thick of the NL Wild Card race, rely on Contreras' veteran leadership and versatility, especially as the team has faced inconsistent form and injury setbacks among its core players.