St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina (thumb) has been scratched from the lineup for Game 4 of the National League Division Series against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday.
Molina was originally in the lineup, but he has since been replaced by Tony Cruz, who will bat eighth. Molina appeared to aggravate a thumb injury on Monday that he had originally suffered in September, and he should be considered day-to-day moving forward.
Although Molina has struggled mightly offensively this season, Cruz has, as well. Over 151 plate appearances, he posted a .204/.235/.310 slash with 2 home runs and a 22.1 hard-hit rate. Additionally, Molina finished the year with seven Defensive Runs Saved, so his absence will loom large.
Source: Rotoworld.com