Pujols Leads Cards to Seventh Win

With tonight’s 6-4 win over the Houston Astros, the Cardinals take their third straight series to start the season.  With Milwaukee’s loss to Cincinnati, the Redbirds stand alone in first place in the Central.

The story in this one was Albert Pujols.  Coming into tonight’s game, Pujols had just one RBI, and no home runs.  Perhaps fueled by the earlier altercation with Houston’s Brandon Backe, Albert teed off on Astros’ pitching, going 3-4, with a walk, 2 home runs and 3 RBI.  Isn’t there a saying about not waking a sleeping giant?  This could be the time when Albert really starts to heat up.  I can’t wait until Backe has to pitch against the Redbirds.

Cardinal lead-off hitter Skip Schumaker broke out of his funk, getting on base four times, with three hits and a walk.  Each of the first three Cardinal batters scored twice.  Braden Looper was solid, and the bullpen was equally as effective.  Closer Jason Isringhausen recorded his league leading fifth save, and has yet to allow a run.  For more, check out the full recap and box score.

All in all, it was another entertaining series from Minute Maid.  It seems like every time the Cardinals visit Houston, you can count on seeing some good games.  Right now, however, it’s tough to gauge just how good this Cardinal team is.  Colorado didn’t play like the reigning NL champs, and both Washington and Houston are considered sub-par teams.  Next up, the Birds fly out to the Barry-less Bay, to face the Giants.  Although also considered a non-contender, San Francisco does have some good arms, something the Cards haven’t faced much of yet.