Cardinals' Lineup Can Improve When Lars' Nootbaar Returns

Hunter Dobbins heads back to bullpen (for now), Lars Nootbaar active Friday: Cardinals Extra

Right-hander will be available in relief Friday or Saturday, depending on need, as Cardinals prepare him for possible starts: "He is a starter," says manager.

Nootbaar Return Overshadowed by Fresh Trade Talk in St. Louis

St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Lars Nootbaar is set to make his long-awaited return to the lineup, but even before stepping onto the field for the 2026 campaign, his name is already resurfacing in trade speculation across the league. Nootbaar is expected to feature in Friday’s lineup as the Cardinals open a three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds, marking a significant moment in his recovery journey. The 27-year-old has been sidelined afte…

Cardinals' Lineup Can Improve When Lars' Nootbaar Returns

Lars Nootbaar will make his 2026 debut with the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday. The outfielder has not played since last season, but has completed a rehab assignment with the organization’s minor league affiliates. Nootbaar will rejoin the roster this weekend when the Cardinals host the Cincinnati Reds. His return will improve the Cardinals’ lineup. Lars Nootbaar will be back on the active roster Friday, mgr Oli Marmol confirms. Likely to debut …

Cardinals To Activate Lars Nootbaar

The Cardinals will activate Lars Nootbaar from the 60-day injured list for Friday’s series opener against the Reds, manager Oli Marmol told reporters (including Jeff Jones of The Belleville News-Democrat). St. Louis will need to make an active roster move. They already have an opening on the 40-man roster after returning Rule 5 pick Matt Pushard to the Marlins. Nootbaar will make his season debut after a two-month plus absence. He underwent surg…