Alec Burleson Scratched from Cardinals Lineup Against Left-Handed Starter

St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Alec Burleson is absent from the starting lineup for Thursday's game against the Oakland Athletics. The decision to bench Burleson appears to be a routine day off, specifically coinciding with the Athletics starting a left-handed pitcher. Burleson has been a regular contributor to the Cardinals' offense, and the team is likely utilizing the matchup to optimize their lineup. He remains available off the bench should the team need his left-handed bat later.