Cardinals' Nootbaar to Start Season on Injured List

Outfielder's surgically repaired heels not fully healed, opening door for Nelson Velázquez

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:57pm

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Cardinals outfielder Lars Nootbaar will begin the 2026 season on the 10-day injured list as he continues to recover from offseason surgery on both of his heels. Nootbaar has been swinging the bat and throwing, but still needs to show he can run the bases and play the outfield at full speed. With Nootbaar sidelined, outfielder Nelson Velázquez has a strong chance to make the team out of Spring Training after an impressive performance at the plate and in the field.

Why it matters

Nootbaar's injury opens up an opportunity for Velázquez to potentially earn a roster spot and contribute early in the season. The Cardinals will need to find offensive production and defensive stability in the outfield while Nootbaar recovers.

The details

Nootbaar, 28, underwent offseason surgery in October to address Haglund's deformities in both heels, which caused irritation and pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel. He has been progressing in his running drills but has not yet been cleared to return to the lineup. Meanwhile, Velázquez has impressed the Cardinals' coaching staff with his power at the plate and improved defensive play in the outfield, making a 'solid effort' to become a more well-rounded player.

  • Nootbaar underwent offseason surgery in October 2025.
  • Nootbaar started his running progression on Friday, March 20, 2026.
  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in early April 2026.

The players

Lars Nootbaar

A 28-year-old outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals who is recovering from offseason surgery on both of his heels.

Nelson Velázquez

An outfielder in the Cardinals' organization who has impressed the team with his power and improved defensive play, putting him in position to make the major league roster out of Spring Training.

Oliver Marmol

The manager of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Jon Jay

The outfield coach for the St. Louis Cardinals.

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What they’re saying

“The work that is being put in by Velázquez has been really good. So it's easy to talk about the homers, but you have to be a complete player and he has put a lot of time into that part of it.”

— Oliver Marmol, Manager

What’s next

Once Nootbaar is cleared to return, he could provide a boost to the Cardinals' lineup with his ability to draw walks and hit for power. In the meantime, Velázquez will look to capitalize on his opportunity to make the major league roster out of Spring Training.

The takeaway

Nootbaar's injury setback opens the door for Velázquez to potentially earn a roster spot with the Cardinals, highlighting the importance of depth and versatility in a long MLB season. The Cardinals' coaching staff has emphasized the need for Velázquez to become a more well-rounded player, which could pay dividends if he makes the team.