David Freese injury: Opening Day not ruled out

The St. Louis Cardinals were encouraged by results of an MRI taken of David Freese's back, and general manager John Mozeliak told reporters -- including Derrick Goold of The St. Louis Post-Dispatch -- that it's not out of the question that the third baseman will be in the team's Opening Day lineup.

The MRI did not show any damage to Freese's discs or back, just irritation and swelling. He will receive an anti-inflammatory injection today, which will sideline him for 48 hours. The Cardinals will see how he responds to the injection and if it's able to resolve the inflammation.

Cards interested in Porcello

The Cardinals are eyeing Tigers right-hander Rick Porcello.

Freese's back was feeling better today, but he told reporters that he's still not sure what to expect as far as Opening Day goes. He continues holding out hope that he'll be healthy to start the regular season.

Freese hit .293/.372/.467 with 25 doubles and 20 home runs over 567 plate appearances last season for the Cardinals, earning his first All-Star selection. Over four seasons in the majors, the 29-year-old owns a career batting line of .296/.363/.446.

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