Billy Hurst/Associated Press

St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina has returned to the lineup after dealing with a right foot contusion.

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Molina in Lineup vs. Nationals

Tuesday, March 29

Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported the news of Molina's return to the lineup against Washington after passing training room tests.

Molina Is Vital Element of Cardinals' World Series Hopes

Molina's foot issues added to his well-documented injury history that includes thumb injuries and multiple surgeries this offseason to address the issues with his left catching hand.

When he's healthy, the 33-year-old backstop is arguably the best at his position in all of baseball. He boasts stellar defense in addition to a better bat than many catchers, posting a .283 career batting average entering the 2016 campaign.

The Cardinals brought in former Cincinnati Reds catcher Brayan Pena this past offseason to provide insurance for Molina if he goes down during the season. Pena weakened a National League Central rival and is a competent player who can fill in adequately as part of St. Louis' championship-caliber lineup if needed.