Matt Holliday’s Status for NLDS in Question

Matt Holliday wasn’t able to start the final game of the regular season and entered the first round of the playoffs considered day-to-day.  Now, the Cardinals are saying there’s a chance Holliday could be forced to a bench role for the entire National League Division Series.

Holliday, who’s been dealing with an inflamed tendon in his right hand, came on to pinch-hit for the Cardinals in the 9^th inning of last night’s 11-6 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies.  It may be a role Holliday is forced to get used to during the first round of the playoffs, as his hand continues hampering his play.

Holliday has been diagnosed with tendinitis in his middle finger, an injury that limits his abilities at the plate as well as in the field.  Holliday took a step towards returning yesterday, taking some throws during pregame warm-ups.  He also took a few swings, but just enough to allow the Cardinals to feel comfortable calling on Holliday to pinch-hit.

Cardinals manager Tony La Russa told reporters that Holliday will go through a more strenuous workout today, and how the slugger responds will impact how he is used.  La Russa did say there’s a chance that Holliday starts game two Sunday.  But, La Russa also admitted Holliday may be restricted to pinch-hitting for the remainder of the series.

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