Nationals @ Cards – 4/4

Tonight is the first game of a three game series against Washington.  We’re still three hours until game time, but here’s the lineup, per Bernie Miklasz:

1. Brian Barton  LF
2. Rick Ankiel  CF
3. Albert Pujols  1B
4. Troy Glaus  3B
5. Ryan Ludwick  RF
6. Yadier Molina  C
7. Cesar Izturis  SS
8. Braden Looper  P
9. Aaron Miles  2B

The first thing I notice is that Barton gets the call over Skip Schumaker.  After a stellar spring, Skip is 0 for his first 11, but does have 3 walks.  He’s also made a couple of outstanding plays in the outfield.  Barton is a below average defensive outfielder, but is still developing.  Either way, it seems like a good time to give him some ABs.

Lefty Odalis Perez takes the mound tonight for the Nationals.  Pujols has owned him throughout his career. Check out these gaudy numbers.

Update (6:50 pm):  The Washington Nationals’ lineup is now available, per Rick Hummel:

1. Christian Guzman  SS
2. Lastings Milledge  CF
3. Ryan Zimmerman  3B
4. Nick Johnson  1B
5. Austin Kearns  RF
6. Paul Lo Duca  C
7. Ronnie Belliard  2B
8. Felipe Lopez  LF
9. Odalis Perez  P

Looks like their pitcher will be batting 9th.  Ludicrous!