Lance Berkman (calf) is not in Wednesday's lineup against the Reds. As expected, as Berkman left Tuesday's game with tightness in his left calf. The Cardinals have an off-day on Thursday, so there's a chance he could be ready to go in Friday's home opener against the Cubs. Matt Carpenter will make the start at first base Wednesday afternoon and bat cleanup.

Lance Berkman returned to action on Tuesday April 10.

Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that a trip to the disabled list for Lance Berkman (calf) is unlikely, but he should sit out Wednesday's game. Not surprising, given the early start time and Thursday's day off. Berkman says the calf is "tender," but it sounds like he might be ready to play Friday in the home opener against the Cubs. If he's not ready at that point, Matt Carpenter would likely fill in.

Lance Berkman told reporters that he is "good to go" and will be in Monday night's starting lineup. Berkman was originally left off Cardinals manager Mike Matheny's lineup sheet. But the veteran first baseman had his sore hand checked out by team trainers and was given clearance to play Monday against the Reds. Matt Carpenter will return to the bench.

Lance Berkman is not in Monday's lineup and will have his sore hand evaluated by team trainers. Berkman also didn't play on Sunday, and may be in danger of missing more games this week. Matt Carpenter is starting at first base Monday against the Reds. And right fielder Carlos Beltran will bat cleanup.

Lance Berkman is not in the Cardinals' lineup Sunday. It's not a surprise that Berkman is getting a breather, as he's 3-for-32 in his career against Brewers starter Randy Wolf. After going with the same lineup for the first three games, new manager Mike Matheny has a few backups in there Sunday, as Matt Carpenter is playing first base, Shane Robinson is in center, Tony Cruz is behind the plate and Tyler Greene is at second.

Lance Berkman (knee) return to the lineup Friday. Berkman hadn't played in nearly a week due to left knee soreness and was given a cortisone shot earlier this week. He's downplayed the issue, though, as the Cardinals appeared to have been exercising extra caution with him.

Lance Berkman (knee) is not in Wednesday's lineup against the Astros. Berkman hasn't played since Saturday due to left knee soreness and was given a cortisone shot a couple of days ago. The 36-year-old isn't concerned, but he's unlikely to return to the lineup until Friday.

Lance Berkman will make his Grapefruit League debut Thursday against the Red Sox. Berkman was held out of the lineup early this week while recovering from mild soreness caused by a recent bout of seasickness suffered during a Friday fishing expedition. The 36-year-old should have plenty of time to get ready for Opening Day.

Lance Berkman hopes to make his Grapefruit League debut Thursday against the Red Sox. Berkman was scratched from Tuesday's lineup due to mild side soreness, but it shouldn't be a lingering issue. The Big Puma batted .301/.412/.547 with 31 homers, 94 RBI and a .959 OPS last season and is expected to serve as the Cards' regular first baseman in 2012.