Molina sidelined by knee injury

Molina sidelined by knee injury

ST. LOUIS -- Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina was sent for medical tests for a knee injury and did not play Saturday against the Marlins, but before leaving told teammates he didn't believe it was anything serious.

Pitcher Adam Wainwright said Molina told him he'd probably be OK with a little rest and that the tests were "purely precautionary." Molina has been among the best players in the league the first half of the season.

Manager Mike Matheny said the knee began bothering Molina on Friday night.

"We saw some things during the game that gave us an indication," Matheny said. "So we're going to have to wait and see what the medical staff says."

Molina has played in 81 of St. Louis' 86 games and leads the National League with a .346 average and has six homers and 45 RBIs. Backup Tony Cruz made his eighth start of the season and first since June 26.

-- From wire report