The 2002 World Series MVP will begin physical therapy next week following Wednesday's surgery in Los Angeles. He likely will miss the Cardinals' opener on April 6.

"It's a loss, but it's part of the game," general manager John Mozeliak said. "We'll be fine. We'll find a way to survive."

The 32-year-old Glaus hit .270 with 27 homers and 99 RBIs last season, his first with the Cardinals. He appeared at the team's annual Winter Warmup event last weekend and made no mention of an injury or a need for surgery.

Mozeliak said the team first learned from Glaus during the Christmas holidays that he was experiencing some discomfort as he began increasing workouts in anticipation of spring training. Glaus was sent to a team doctor in Florida.

An injection didn't help, and the team learned Monday that surgery was planned. Mozeliak said it was possible Glaus could be ready by opening day.

"It's really hard to guess when he'll return until he can start doing some baseball activities," Mozeliak said.

Glaus had two cortisone shots and missed a few games in September due to what was described as a strained right shoulder. But an MRI at the time showed no significant problems.