Cardinals’ Reliever John King Makes Triumphant Return After Oblique Strain
After a grueling recovery process, Cardinals’ reliever John King has finally returned to the mound. The left-handed pitcher had been sidelined for weeks due to an oblique strain, but he made his comeback in a recent game against the Cubs.
King’s absence was felt by the team, as he had been a reliable and dominant force in the bullpen. But his return was met with cheers and applause from both his teammates and fans.
The 26-year-old pitcher wasted no time in making an impact, throwing a scoreless inning and helping the Cardinals secure a win against their division rivals. His performance was a testament to his determination and hard work during his recovery.
King’s return couldn’t have come at a better time for the Cardinals, who are currently in a tight race for a playoff spot. With his strong pitching and veteran presence, he will undoubtedly be a valuable asset for the team as they push for a postseason berth.
The Cardinals’ manager, Mike Shildt, expressed his excitement for King’s return, stating that he brings a “different dynamic” to the bullpen. He also praised King for his resilience and dedication to getting back on the field.
As for King himself,
Cardinals Activate Reliever John King from Injured List
The St. Louis Cardinals have made a crucial move to bolster their bullpen, announcing the activation of left-handed pitcher John King from the 15-day injured list. This comes after a month-long absence due to a left groin strain, as reported by MLB.com’s John Denton.
In a corresponding move, the Cardinals have optioned left-handed pitcher Anthony Veneziano to Triple-A Memphis.
King’s return to the active roster marks his first appearance with the Cardinals since July 29. The southpaw reliever has had a rollercoaster season, struggling before his injury with a 3.38 ERA in early June and then experiencing a dip in performance throughout the summer.
Currently, King holds a 5.18 ERA across 42.1 innings with a WHIP over 1.6. This year, he also has a career-low 1.85 strikeout to walk ratio.
However, as a sixth-year MLB veteran, King has a career 3.87 ERA. In his last three years with the Cardinals, his ERA has been even lower at 3.44.
King’s recent success with the Cardinals has been impressive, with a remarkable 1.45 ERA across 18.2 innings in 2023 and a 2.85 ERA across 60 innings last year.
While 2025 has not been as kind to King, his return to full health may be just what he needs to finish the season strong. With his experience and past success, the Cardinals are hopeful that King can find his groove and contribute to their bullpen down the stretch.
