PLAYING TIME: Craig returns; Beltran shifts to CF

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Beltran shifts to CF as Craig returns

Carlos Beltrán (OF, STL) made his first CF start since 2010 Friday, making room in the lineup for both Allen Craig (OF/1B, STL), activated from the DL to start in RF, and recent callup Matt Adams (1B, STL). Adams is 13-for-41, with an .890 OPS, while playing 1B regularly since Lance Berkman (1B/OF, STL) underwent knee surgery for a torn meniscus, likely sidelining him until August.  Craig missed the season's first month recovering from off-season knee surgery, but returned in May swinging a hot stick. He carried a .373 BA and 1.203 OPS, with five HR through 51 AB, when sidelined by a left hamstring strain in mid-May.

Beltran ended May as the NL's HR leader, with 15, despite...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Today

Brent Rooker's return affects OF and DH playing time, Yesavage and Domínguez return, O'Hoppe and Stanton head to the IL, and more late-game chaos for the Angels.
Apr 27 2026 8:27am
Tyler O'Neill is back to a crowded BAL OF, a timetable on Lindor, the Cubs bullpen is in flux, and more.
Apr 25 2026 9:23am
Ronny Mauricio seems set to take over SS in New York for the time being; Walker released as Philly prepares for Wheeler; a possible closer change in Toronto, and more.
Apr 24 2026 9:21am
Lucas Giolito is a Padre; Langford and Realmuto hit the IL; rookie pitchers get called up. Check out the playing-time implications of all of the day's news.
Apr 23 2026 8:57am
Suarez for saves in Atlanta; returning stars in New York and Philadelphia; and a promising rookie to get the call in Boston?
Apr 22 2026 9:19am

Tools