JUPITER, Fla. — Third baseman David Freese was
expected to make his spring training debut this afternoon, Sunday,
against the Florida Marlins, but he is not listed in the starting
lineup.

Freese has been eased into workouts slowly as he recovers from
surgeries to both ankles. He has appeared as a pinch hitter in
exhibition game, but has yet to see the position the Cardinals
expect him to play on opening day.

Manager Tony La Russa said the delay was because the infielder
fouled a pitch off his left foot during a batting drill this past
week. Freese wore a protective guard while taking swings
Saturday.

La Russa affirmed that Freese will make his first Grapefruit
League start Monday.

On Saturday, Freese spoke of being eager to take the field on
Sunday, the day manager designated as the first day he would appear
in the lineup. Originally, the plan was to hold Freese out for the
first week of games and have him appear on Monday in Fort Myers,
Fla., against the Minnesota Twins.

Freese said when he does play he will be running “under
control.” Getting around the bases is still the biggest test for
his rebuilt joints.