When will Albert Pujols return to the Cardinals lineup? That is the question all Cardinal fans are asking. Will he be out til after the all-star break? Can he DH in these interleague games? Should he rush back? These are all good questions that we’ll give our opinion on.
Will he be out til after the all-star break?
If anyone deserves to be in this years All-Star game, it’s Albert Pujols. Despite missing 10+ games, he’s still league leader in several categories. He’s by far the best first baseman in the league and it would be a shame for him to miss it. As of yesterday, Albert was seen working out on the field. He’s been taking some BP and trying to slowly get back into rythym. His muscles and body seems to be recovering quickly from this oblique injury. We think Albert WILL be back before the all-star game!
Can he DH in these interleague games?
He certainly can once he is off the 15 day DL. This might not be a bad role for Albert to ease into playing again. Go up every few innings, take your rips, and rest while the team is in the field. Knowing Albert’s personality, I don’t see him wanting to do this. He’s a competitor and wants to be out in the field. But if push comes to shove, and the Cardinals say, it’s DH or nothing, I’ll be he’s DH. So in short, I think we will see him in the DH role a little during this interleague stretch.
Should he rush back?
Absolutely not. The Cardinals are in no way hurting to make the playoffs. They are still in command in the Central, and guys are stepping up. Albert needs to get this injury healed 100% before coming back, to ensure that he’s ready for the rest of the season! I hope he waits til after the all-star break, I think he’ll be back within the next week.
We shall see!
story by AlbertPujolsClub.com