The St. Louis Cardinals are 29-22 this season, despite being hit with a number of injuries. Recently, they received some good news on former standout ace Jack Flaherty and his injured right shoulder. Flaherty tossed a bullpen session, throwing 40 pitches and is feeling really good.

MLB.com Cardinals beat writer John Denton captured his thoughts.

“I probably feel better than I did last year. I was pitching well numbers wise and results wise, but I didn't have the stuff I have now,” Flaherty said after his bullpen session.

The Cardinals big righty has not pitched this year with the shoulder injury. In 2021, Flaherty posted a 3.22 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP over 18 starts prior to his injury.

The next step in Flaherty's return to St. Louis would be a rehab start, which is slated for next week at Double-A Springfield.

The Cardinals also got good news on outfielder Tyler O'Neill. O'Neill, who has also been dealing with a shoulder issue, is scheduled for a rehab assignment starting Friday at Triple-A Memphis. The St. Louis outfielder would be a big boost to the Cardinals offense.

He's coming off of a career year, posting 34 home runs and 15 stolen bases in 2021.

Despite the injury woes, the Cardinals have continued to play well. Much of that has to do with the emergence of Paul Goldschmidt, who is in the midst of a 25-game hitting streak.

Meanwhile, the National League Central leading Brewers are also dealing with injuries. Starter Brandon Woodruff was recently placed on the 15-day IL, but also got some good news recently.

The division is more than likely going to come down to St. Louis and Milwaukee. Health could play a big factor in who wins the division.