Albert Pujols' Slam Sends St. Louis Cardinals To 9-6 Win

Wednesday night opened up looking like the typical Joel Pineiro start: down 3-1 after the top of the third inning.

Then the St. Louis Cardinals offense starting churning, and slugger Albert Pujols led the charge. With the bases loaded in the fourth inning, Pujols launched the first pitch from Dodgers starter Derek Lowe over the left-center fence.

Pujols' RBI tally may have started and stopped there, but he was 4-4 with a walk in five plate appearances to lead the Cardinals to a 9-6 victory.

The Cards' bullpen was shaky once again, but eventually prevailed with Chris Perez closing things down in the ninth inning.

There was a very awkward moment in the eighth inning with one out and relief pitcher Brad Thompson on the hill.

Dodgers' pinch-hitter Mark Sweeney stepped towards the batter's box, but second baseman Jeff Kent stepped out of the dugout and approached the plate in favor of Sweeney. The umpires discussed the matter for several minutes before allowing Kent to enter the ballgame.

It was determined, however, after the game that Sweeney's name had indeed been read by the PA announcer before manager Joe Torre signaled for Kent to enter the game.

Overall, the two players who have lifted the Cardinals offense all year did it once again tonight. Pujols, along with outfielder Ryan Ludwick did their best Batman and Robin impression, hitting back-to-back jacks into the seats clad with Cardinal red.

Look for an extended piece tomorrow as I will be traveling to Busch Stadium with press credentials. I owe huge thanks to Dave Nemetz for providing me with the opportunity.

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