Carpenter (back) is back in the starting lineup for Thursday's spring game, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

EDGE Analysis

Carpenter is expected to miss a week of spring action due to a back injury, but he'll occupy the nine-spot in Thursday's exhibition contest. His position in the batting order should allow him to get in some defensive reps, though Carpenter has yet to be cleared to take full swings. If his spot in the order does come up, Carpenter will likely be removed for a pinch hitter, or take all of the pitches headed his way.