The St. Louis Cardinals activated outfielder Lars Nootbaar from the 60-day injured list Friday, clearing him to start in left field against the Cincinnati Reds. Nootbaar underwent offseason surgery on both heels and missed the entire season until now. The 28-year-old gives St. Louis a left-handed bat and outfield depth they've lacked.

During his 20-day rehab stint with Triple-A Memphis, Nootbaar showed promising form. He posted a .409 on-base percentage with three home runs in 44 at-bats across 12 games. His rehab finale featured a solo homer and four RBI in an 18-4 victory. Last season, Nootbaar hit .234 with 13 homers in 135 games.

To make room for Nootbaar's return, St. Louis optioned infielder Thomas Saggese to Memphis and recalled right-hander Matt Svanson. The club also placed reliever Ryan Fernandez on the 15-day injured list retroactive to June 2, citing low back pain.

Nootbaar's activation addresses a significant outfield void for the Cardinals, who have struggled with injuries throughout the season. His left-handed presence provides manager Oliver Marmol with another lineup option as St. Louis looks to climb in the NL Central standings.