Four Straight Wins

With a fine performance from Cardinal starter Joel Pineiro, and four home runs from the supporting cast, the Cardinals picked up a decisive win against the Reds in Cincinnati.

Pineiro earned his third win in as many starts with six strong innings.  He allowed 3 runs on 7 hits, and struck out 6 without issuing a walk. Jason Isringhausen, Russ Springer, and Ron Villone each pitched a scoreless inning in relief.

Skip Schumaker and Ryan Ludwick each had a home run, while Albert Pujols hit a pair.  9-3 was the final score.  Here’s the complete box score.

You can bet I switched over to the Cubs/Marlins game as soon as the Cardinals recorded the final out.  Wouldn’t you know, Kevin Gregg was in trouble again in the ninth, clinging to a one run lead.  The Fish prevailed this time, so St. Louis picks up a full game in the standings.

I mentioned yesterday that Adam Wainwright was scheduled to pitch tonight for the Springfield Cardinals.  As Matthew Leach reports, the outing went well.

The Cards will go for the sweep tomorrow afternoon with Kyle Lohse on the mound. The Reds will hand the ball to All-Star Edinson Volquez.  I’m anxious to see if Tony La Russa uses his typical “getaway day lineup”, or sticks with the big guns due to the off day on Monday.  I’ll have a pre-game post up early tomorrow after the lineups are announced.  Already at 6-3, a Cardinal win would put an exclamation point on a very successful road trip.