What happened: Play was paused at Busch Stadium during the bottom of the first inning for an injury delay involving Alec Burleson. The Cardinals outfielder was at the plate with St. Louis trailing 1-0 following a first-inning sacrifice fly by the Padres.
Why it matters: Burleson has been the engine of the St. Louis lineup, entering Wednesday's contest on a Any significant injury to the power hitter would jeopardize the Cardinals' pursuit of the NL Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers, who currently hold a 4.5-game lead.
By the numbers: Burleson: .285 AVG, 13 HR, 52 RBI (15-game hit streak). Cardinals: 40-31, 2nd in NL Central (4.5 GB). Padres: 37-35, 2nd in NL West (9.0 GB).
What to watch: Cardinals training staff are monitoring Burleson's status to decide if he can continue in the series finale.
Sources
- @ESPN