CHICAGO -- With their decision to transfer Tyler Lyons to the 60-day disabled list on Friday, the Cardinals erased the possibility of the left-handed reliever returning to the field before the end of the regular season.
Lyons was diagnosed with a right knee stress fracture on Aug. 3 and was placed on the 15-day DL at that time. As recently as Tuesday, he expressed optimism that he'd be able to heal in time to contribute again this season. Now, the only way that will happen is if the Cards advance to the postseason.
Two orthopedists told Lyons that the best course of action was to rest his knee and continue to use crutches until the end of the month. The lefty will likely need at least one more month after that to rehab his knee and build back arm strength.
That means that if Lyons is going to pitch again in 2016, he'll have to get some help from his teammates.
"I do feel like if we're fortunate enough to make October," general manager John Mozeliak said, "that he could be ready."
Lyons had been a valuable and versatile piece in the Cardinals' bullpen. In 30 appearances, he posted a 3.38 ERA.
The decision to move Lyons to the 60-day DL was necessary to add right-hander Luke Weaver to the 40-man roster. Weaver will make his Major League debut as Saturday's starter against the Cubs. He was added to the taxi squad on Friday, meaning Weaver could work out with the team, but not be in the dugout during the game. He'll be officially placed on the 25-man roster on Saturday.