St. Louis Cardinals’ Chris Carpenter to make first start of the season on Friday – MLB News
St. Louis Cardinals have finally given the green light to pitcher Chris Carpenter to make his first start this season. The Cardinals ace, that had undergone a thoracic outlet surgery in July was earlier unsure if he would pitch this season.
However, after the successful simulated games, last of which came on Saturday, Carpenter is now set to pitch on Friday, September 21, against the Chicago Cubs when the Cardinals will start their final road trip this year.
The Cardinals' starter is looking forward to this game.
"I'm looking forward to it," Carpenter said. "We've worked hard to get back and be able to do this. Like we've said all along, we weren't expecting it, but I'm excited. I think it's going to be a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to getting back out there and competing."
Carpenter, like said earlier, was uncertain if he would return this season given the surgery that he had to go through. The nerve-related issue in his neck/shoulder was something serious and the Cardinals did not want to take any risk by bringing him on the mound.
Now that things have settled and Carpenter all set to return, the Cardinals will certainly use the starter as many times as they can prior to the end of the season. Provided the Cardinals go to the playoff, he will be an invaluable asset for St. Louis.
That is the considered view of the manager Mike Matheny. "He's a presence on this team," Matheny said. "He's a leader on this team. We're excited for him. We're excited for us. I'm anxious to watch him pitch."
What adds to the excitement and more importantly, is the significance of the series an its result. The Cardinals are currently competing for the Wild Card and chances are that they might attain it. Competing against them are the Pittsburgh Pirates that stand third in the National League Central.
Carpenter was instrumental in facilitating the team’s resounding success last year, especially in the World Series when they overwhelmed the Texas Rangers and became the Champions. Whether that instrumentality is exhibited this season is to be seen on Friday.
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