The Springfield Cardinals announced today that St. Louis Cardinals reliever Cal Eldred will arrive in Springfield on Wednesday afternoon.  Eldred has been out of action since early April, suffering from a viral infection that has limited him to just two games out of the Cards bullpen.

Eldred is expected to be officially activated later this week and would then become the first St. Louis Cardinals player to join Springfield on a rehab assignment.

Last season, Eldred was 4-2 with a 3.76 ERA, making 52 appearances out of the bullpen for the National League Champs. 

Eldred will throw a simulated game today at Hammons Field before the Cardinals take on the RockHounds at 7:10pm.  He is expected to throw in Saturday night's game against the Frisco RoughRiders. 

"We're thrilled to have Cal here in Springfield", said General Manager Matt Gifford.  "I know the fans are going to be excited to see a member of the St. Louis Cardinals here at Hammons Field."

On Saturday night, 2,500 fans will receive koozies thanks to American Family Insurance.  Fans are also encouraged to bring a canned item or cash donation to help support National Hunger Awareness Week.  Game time on Saturday is 7:10pm and gates open at 6:10pm.  The Cardinals are home tonight looking to make it three straight wins over the Midland RockHounds, with game time scheduled for 7:10pm.  Tickets for this week's action are available at (417) 863-2143 or online at www.springfieldcardinals.com.