In a rare and emotional moment that captured the hearts of all of Major League Baseball, Lars Noo, the beloved St. Louis Cardinals, opened up on
Just before taking the field at Busch Stadium, Nootbaar took to social media to deliver a short, vulnerable message that instantly went viral.
“To my Cardinals family and the greatest baseball fans — I need you all to know that my mother has fought the hardest battle of her life. She is my hero, my strength, and the reason I am who I am. We kept this a secret because she asked me to focus on my game and my team. But now I ask for your prayers, kind thoughts, and love. She needs it. We need it.”
The post — heartfelt, raw, and humble — revealed the personal strength behind the rising MLB star. Nootbaar, who has won over fans with his infectious energy and all-out style of play, has reminded the world that even professional athletes carry burdens.
A close teammate described Nootbaar as “the heartbeat of this team,” adding, “He carries everyone else. Now it’s our turn to carry him.”
Despite the emotional toll, Nootbaar has not left the game. Insiders say he is using baseball as a way to cope, throwing himself into every game with renewed passion—not just for the team, but for his mother.
A Cardinals coach shared, “Every time Lars goes to catch a ball or runs around the bases, it’s not just to win—it’s for his mom. He’s out there carrying her strength.”
Nootbaar, who proudly represents his Japanese-American heritage, has become a household name in Japan during the World Baseball Classic. His mother, Kumi Enokida, has long been a key influence in his life and career, cheering him on as he has risen. In a previous interview, she once said, “He told me when I was 10 years old: ‘My name is Lars Nootbaar. I am Japanese.’ And he said it with pride.”
Now, fans around the world — including many from Japan — are sending their love and support to the woman who helped shape one of baseball’s most charismatic young stars.
One fan’s viral post summed up the sentiment: “Lars gave us everything he had every game. Now it’s our turn to give him all our love and strength. We stand with you, #MamaNootbaar.”
As the Cardinals move forward in a highly competitive season, the focus now isn’t just on standings, stats, or October dreams—it’s on healing, hope, and humanity.