Cards Close Out April With a Win

Today’s rubber game against Cincinnati was the final game of the month, and the Cardinals earned a franchise record 18 wins to start the season with their victory today. In two other seasons, St. Louis won 17 games in April.

Cardinal starter Braden Looper saw his last outing end in a no decision after a blown save by closer Jason Isringhausen.  Today, he was less sharp, but still handed it over to the bullpen with the lead.  Isringhausen closed this one out for Looper, earning his ninth save of the seaon.

Rick Ankiel continued  to swing the bat well, with multi-hit games in all three contests against the Reds.  The Cards won it 5-2.  Matthew Leach has more.

During today’s telecast, they mentioned the status of rehabbing pitchers Mark Mulder and Matt Clement.  Mulder made the start for Memphis today, lasting only 3.2 innings, and allowing 9 runs on 9 hits.  Rick Hummel has the full story.  With an outing like that, I doubt he’ll be in St. Louis anytime soon.  They say Clement won’t even begin his 30-day rehab until June. The way the current staff is pitching, however, there’s no hurry to get the others back.

Finally, it’s official.  Former Cardinal ace Matt Morris has retired.  After being released from Pittsburgh on Sunday, he has no intention of making a comeback with another team. The Post Dispatch has the story.

It’s an off day for the Redbirds tomorrow.  Friday, the division rival Chicago Cubs come to town.  More on that tomorrow.