Outfielder Allen Craig suffered a fractured right patella when he slammed into an outfield fence at Minute Maid Park last week, Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak confirmed Wednesday afternoon.

Craig, already on the 15-day disabled list, will miss 3-6 weeks due to the injury to his kneecap, Mozeliak said.

The club initially had hoped Craig suffered nothing worse than a puncture that required three stitches to the knee. However, Craig suffered continued stiffness in the area and was re-examined Tuesday in St. Louis. X-rays confirmed the fracture.

Eduardo Sanchez is scheduled to return to St. Louis on Thursday to be examined by team medical supervisor Dr. George Paletta.

The club confirmed Wednesday afternoon that Sanchez is suffering inflammation of the shoulder.

Cards' lineup:

1. Theriot, SS

2. Rasmus, CF

3. Pujols, 3B

4. Berkman, 1B

5. Brown, RF

6. Jay, LF

7. Molina, C

8. Schumaker, 2B

9. McClellan, P

Nationals' lineup:

1. Werth, RF

2. Bernadina, CF

3. Zimmerman, 3B

4. Nix, LF

5. Morse, 1B

6. Espinosa, 2B

7. Rodriguez, C

8. Hernandez, P

9. Desmond, SS