Phoenix — It took the Cardinals a little over two weeks and 14 games into the season for Lars Nootbaar to make his debut. Due to two damaged ribs, the native of Southern California and former USC standout was unable to participate in the eagerly awaited season-opening series in Los Angeles. He was expected to start at left field for the team in spring training.
Nootbaar attempted to look at the bigger picture even though it was disappointing to miss that series and not be with the team to begin the season (he stayed at the Cardinals’ spring training complex in Jupiter, Florida, when they broke camp).
Nootbaar was activated by the Cardinals on Thursday after a minor-league rehab assignment spanning six games and twenty-one at-bats. His assignment was forced to alternate between Double-A Springfield and Triple-A Memphis due to weather.
Regarding his arrival at the plate, Nootbaar indicated that he is prepared.
Nootbaar stated, “I feel pretty confident about where I’m at, but the game will determine that.” “I believe there comes a time when you just have to go in there and play without the training wheels.” We’ll see, but for now I’m comfortable with where I am.
Nootbaar had made 28 career plate appearances at Chase Field before Friday, going 8 for 17 (.471) with two home runs, 11 walks, and nine runs scored.
During a spring training game in West Palm Beach, Florida, Nootbaar crashed with the outfield wall in left field, breaking his ribs.
