Another issue for Cardinals: Matt Carpenter leaves game with tight hip
ST. LOUIS -- Third baseman Matt Carpenter of the St. Louis Cardinals has left a game early because of tightness in his left hip, the latest setback for the NL Central leaders.
Carpenter came out Saturday night after five innings against Milwaukee. The team said he was pulled for precautionary reasons.
Carpenter said after the game he intended to play Sunday in the home finale, and manager Mike Matheny said Carpenter had to be persuaded to come out.
"By the time I came up the steps into the clubhouse, he was already lobbying that he was fine and wants to play," Matheny said.
Earlier in the day, the Cardinals said starter Carlos Martinez would miss the rest of the season because of a strained right shoulder.
The Cardinals have the best record in the majors despite a series of injuries. Star catcher Yadier Molina is out with a tear in his left thumb, and St. Louis has done without Adam Wainwright, Matt Adams, Matt Holliday, Jon Jay and Jordan Walden for extended periods.
