Cardinals Catcher Yadier Molina Seen By Hand Specialist

The All-Star catcher met with a hand specialist on Monday and it was determined that a ligament injury hasn’t healed.

Molina injured the thumb September 20 when he tagged out the Chicago Cubs’ Anthony Rizzo at the plate on a strong throw from right fielder Jason Heyward.

Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said Monday that the team is still optimistic catcher Yadier Molina will be active for the postseason.

While the damage to the ligament in his left thumb is still present, according to the team, Molina has been cleared to begin a few baseball activities this week in preparation for Friday’s Game 1 at Busch Stadium.

Following the injury, Molina rested for the remainder of the regular season and the Cardinals went on to clinch the NL Central Division without him.

Joe Philbin has been fired four games into his fourth season as coach of the Miami Dolphins, and one day after a flop on an global stage sealed his fate.