Lars Nootbaar, outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, revealed his disappointment in missing the opportunity to represent Team Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Though Nootbaar had been a prominent player for Japan thanks to his mother’s heritage, a double heel surgery this winter means he will not be available to defend the championship with Samurai Japan.
Choosing to prioritize his recovery over participation, Nootbaar acknowledged that while it was difficult to give up the WBC, opting for surgery was essential to prepare for the forthcoming regular Major League Baseball season.
Details Behind the Surgery and Recovery Decision
Nootbaar explained that the discovery of structural damage in his heels required swift action.
“When we found some structural damage, it was a decision I had to make pretty fast because it would enter into the season, and we knew the recovery time it would take,”
he said, according to Bill Ladson of MLB.com.
“It was an easy one with the World Baseball Classic and Spring Training coming up. I thought career-wise, it would be best (to have surgery).”
The player was dealing with Haglund’s deformities in both heels, causing inflammation where his heels connect to the Achilles tendon. After enduring pain throughout the previous season—which coincided with his poorest statistical year—Nootbaar’s main objective was to return to full health and peak performance.
Emotional Impact of Missing the WBC for Nootbaar
Despite understanding the necessity of his absence, Nootbaar expressed his sadness about not taking part in the tournament.
“I’m greatly disappointed about the games that are coming up now,”
he said.
“I saw some clips of the ‘23 games that brought me back… I remember getting off the flight in Japan. I really didn’t know what to expect, seeing it for the first time, and it was like a whirlwind. I was soaking it all in. Now, being a spectator, you wish you were there, but I made the right decision.”
Uncertainty Surrounding Nootbaar’s Future with the Cardinals
This season brings additional tension for Nootbaar as he recovers in St. Louis, facing the possibility of a trade once healthy. The Cardinals have already moved former All-Stars such as Sonny Gray, Willson Contreras, Nolan Arenado, and Brendan Donovan, leaving Nootbaar as the longest-tenured position player on the roster. This shifting roster environment adds an extra layer of uncertainty around his career trajectory.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Nootbaar and Team Japan
Nootbaar’s decision to prioritize surgery over the WBC highlights the difficult balance athletes must strike between representing their heritage on an international stage and maintaining their physical condition for demanding professional seasons. While his absence will be felt by Team Japan, his focus remains on recuperating fully to contribute effectively in the MLB season ahead. For the Cardinals, how Nootbaar reintegrates post-recovery and the possibility of roster changes will be key storylines in the coming months.
