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Peralta's return delayed after cutting thumb

Steve Mitchell / USA TODAY Sports

Jhonny Peralta isn't having any luck when it comes to his thumbs.

The St. Louis Cardinals shortstop, who was rehabbing from a torn ligament in his left thumb, cut his right thumb while trying to open a box Saturday.

Peralta will miss three-to-four days of action, according to manager Mike Matheny, who once cut his own thumb with a hunting knife as a member of the Cardinals in 2000.

"I just don't have any idea how someone could cut their hand. That just amazes me," Matheny joked to ESPN's Mark Saxon. "I feel for him because I've been there. Fortunately, his isn't that big a deal, just a minor setback. We can't bubble-wrap guys. You have to live life, and there are going to be things that happen."

Peralta injured his left thumb in early March, and underwent surgery to repair the tear. He was on track to re-join the Cardinals next week, but that date will be pushed back.

St. Louis has relied on 25-year-old rookie Aledmys Diaz in Peralta's absence. The youngster has played exceptionally well, hitting .323./356/.551 with seven home runs and 25 RBIs.

Peralta, who signed a four-year $53-million contract with the Cardinals in November 2013, hit 17 home runs and had 71 RBIs last season.

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