At the beginning of this season, the Cardinals’ faithful were traumatized by the news that Chris Carpenter was out for the season. His continued issues with thoracic outlet syndrome seemed to have sidelined him for the season causing many to believe that he would retire. Well, guess what, kids? Carp is on his way to Springfield to start rehabbing for the AA club as of Monday.
Here’s a timeline of Capenter’s injury status (2013):
February 5-Team announces Carpenter will be out for the 2013 season, and place him on the 60 day DL as of February 22.
May 4ish-Talk begins to surface of Carp making a comeback this season.
Mid May-Carpenter begins throwing several bullpen sessions, having no arm issues.
May 16-States he would like to come back as a starter.
June 3-Begins throwing to live hitters.
June 17-Experiences some back stiffness which could cause concern for a comeback, but is cleared by doctors to return to throwing on June 21.
July 5-Throws 5 simulated innings.
July 10-Matheny announces Carpenter is ready for a minor league rehab stint, and he will be in AA Springfield as of Monday.
What does this all mean for the team? Well, on the heels of the announcement of having 2 All-Star starters (in Yadi and Beltran) and 5 total All-Stars (add on there M. Carpenter, Wainwright and Craig) this Cardinals’ fan is pretty gosh darn giddy. Having a positive, super competitive force back in playing shape will be good for all the younger guys who have been called up.
According to what I have seen, Carpenter can have up to 30 days with Springfield, and could be coming back up to St. Louis when he completes his stint (could be less than 30 days, but cannot be more). Anybody want to road trip to Springfield?!
Boggs being traded, and Carp getting healthy?! It’s not even my birthday.
Here’s to a healthy rehab stint!
Go Cards!
