Ludwig may beat Ankiel off DL

ST. LOUIS -- Cardinals outfielder Ryan Ludwick might return from the 15-day disabled list before Rick Ankiel, who was eligible to come back Wednesday.

Ankiel has worked out with the team the last three days, but Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said Friday that the center fielder didn't appear close to coming back. Ankiel has a bruised right shoulder and overall soreness from a headfirst crash into the wall after running down a fly ball at the warning track earlier this month.

La Russa said Ankiel "still felt something" when he was eligible to come off the DL on Wednesday.

"It probably comes down to when the discomfort is gone," La Russa said. "I really have no idea. He wants to get back and stay back, and I don't blame him."

Ludwick is eligible to return from a right hamstring injury Friday, and the Cardinals expect him to be ready immediately.

La Russa said Ankiel is not working out vigorously and may require a rehab assignment. The manager said Ludwick is a better bet to return without a rehab because he has more experience as a position player.

-- AP