Cards beat Dodgers 5--2 in 12; regain Wild Card lead

In a game that featured the likes of Matt Kemp and the Los Angeles Dodgers battling Adam Wainwright and the defending-champion St. Louis Cardinals with the two dead-lock tied up for the final wild card spot--it'd only have to mean one thing....right?

By that of course, I meant it had to include extra-inning baseball. Not only because of the two great franchises and the respect for each other--but also because it is in the middle of September--and just less than three weeks left of regular season games.

On Sunday, when the two teams took the field sporting overall records of 76-70; Adam Wainwright took them numbers to heart.

Despite him not picking up the win for start and instead being given a no-decision; Waino looked to be back into great form as he pitched six innings--allowing just two runs on five hits. He also finished the game with two walks and two strikeouts as well.

Jon Jay was the hero for the game though--as in a 2-2 tie ball game in the top of the twelvth-inning, Jay came through with an RBI double to left that drove in Matt Carpenter following his walk--which was the starting point to the defending champs game-winning rally on Sunday afternoon.

St. Louis started off the game with two quick runs in the top of the first following an RBI double from Allen Craig that drove in Beltran; and a wild pitch from rookie starter Fife that brought home Matt Holliday.

Andre Either answered the Cardinals runs in the Dodgers' third inning as he tied it all up at two apiece with a monsterous two-run home run.

The game last a total of four hours and twenty-five minutes--but in the end was all worth it for those of us apart of Cardinal Nation. St. Louis now owns a one game lead over the Dodgers for the wild card spot as the Cardinals host the Astros for three and the Dodgers travel to Washington for three--and both start on Tuesday night.

Pre-Gamin' with RedBird Nation: [at Dodgers] 3:10pm

Entering this afternoon's contest against the Los Angeles Dodgers; the defending world-champions have just sixteen games remaining in the 2012 regular season (including this game)--and with the two ball clubs being tied at the moment for the National League's last and final wild card spot--both teams desperately need to win.

With a "must-win" on the line for St. Louis, no one other than Adam Wainwright is the man that the new skipper would call to be on the mound--and as bad news surrounded the Dodgers about Clayton Kershaw yesterday--Los Angeles has called upon rookie pitcher Stephen Fife to make the start, who is 0-1 with an overall earned-run average of 2.16--and will be making his first career start against the Red-Birds.

The Cardinals won the four-game series opener on Thursday night--but since then, Luis Cruz and the Dodgers have rallied the past few days and won the last two meetings', including last night by a score of 4-to-3 in a game that ended with a controversial call following another big night from Cruz at the plate with the bat.

As both teams are basically out of contention of winning there respective division titles; the wild card spot that they are currently tied for is both teams' only chance at seeing postseason baseball in the month of October. Today's huge series finale will deliver us the first pitch from Dodgers Stadium at approximately 3:10pm Central Time and will be televised on FOX Sports Midwest. Here is a quick glimpse at the lineup that skipper' Mike Matheny has put together for the game:

1. Jon Jay (Centerfield)
2. Carlos Beltran (Right Field)
3. Matt Holliday (Left Field)
4. Allen Craig (First Base)
5. Yadier Molina (Catcher)
6. David Freese (Third Base)
7. Skip Schumaker (Second Base)
8. Peter Kozma (Shortstop)
9. Adam Wainwright (Pitcher)

Adam Wainwright gets the start in must-win game

With just under three weeks remaining in the 2012 MLB baseball season, only one thing matters to the defending world champion St. Louis Cardinals; winning.

After beating the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday night in the four game series opener, the Cardinals have dropped two straight ballgames and now the two teams enter Sunday's finale tied for the NL's final wild card spot.

With all of that blooming upon us; first-year manager Mike Matheny is giving the ball to none other than one of the clutchest big game pitchers of the last five-to-seven seasons', Adam Wainwright.

Despite Wainwright having a rather off season, atleast according to his own expectations--which wasn't necessarily unexpected considering its his first season back from Tommy John surgery--winning is always the only concern he has coming into a game.

Entering this afternoon's important contest, Wainwright is 13-13 on the season and owns an earned-run average of 4.01. While his ERA this season is well above his career average, he still has posted 170 strikeouts on the year--and has had some very impressive starts as of recent to keep the team in striking distance of finishing off their bid for the final Wild Card spot in the National League.

The Cardinals are 6-3 in his last ten starts--but have lost his last three. He went on a five game win streak over the span of August 4th through August 26th--but since then haven't won while his last start was a loss to the Padres in a game in which he lasted six innings and gave up just two earned runs.

If there is one pitcher that can give this team a much-needed spark in a game that is as pivotal as this afternoon's game is, it is most definitely the determination and willingness of and from former Cy Young award winner Adam Wainwright.

Luis Cruz strikes again; Dodgers beat Cardinals 4-3

Just one night after Luis Cruz devastated the defending world champions in a big win; Saturday night featured the same thing as Los Angeles defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 4-to-3 inside Dodgers Stadium in front of a rowdy-sellout crowd.

With the Cardinals leading 3-to-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning--and closer' Jason Motte going for his 35th save of the season--Cruz tied the ballgame with a two-out, RBI double--that was followed up from a pinch-hit RBI single from Juan Rivera to win the game 4-to-3.

The win from Los Angeles now forced a tie in the Wild Card race for the fifth and final playoff spot in the entire National League and with one more head-to-head matchup that will be tomorrow at 3:10pm Central Time.

The Cardinals got all three RBIs coming off of the bat of Allen Craig; who in the top of the first-inning hit a two-run home run that drove in Matt Holliday to give St. Louis an early 2-0 lead to start the night off.
Despite road woes all season from starting pitcher Jaime Garcia, tonight he actually stood his ground--even though Motte blew his sixth save on the season and got the loss on the night.

Garcia dueled the Dodgers' starter Blanton pretty well, as he gave up two runs (one earned) on three hits in six innings of work. Blanton on the opposite side of things, he finished the game allowing three runs on four hits in five and one-thirds innings pitched.

Entering Sunday's series weekend finale in which the Cardinals will try to finish with a four-game split and a one game lead in the Wild Card race; Adam Wainwright will be head to head--or as I should say--pitch for pitch--with Fife, who is 0-1 on the season, for the Dodgers.

The much-important pivotal game for the wild card lead on Sunday afternoon will start off at 3:10pm Central Time and will be televised on FOX Sports Midwest.

(Just a quick question for ESPN, how is this not the Sunday Night Baseball game?!?!)

Chris Carpenter has expected return from start

On the date of July 13th when the St. Louis Cardinals declared the surgery to address thoracic outlet syndrome was indeed season-ending for Chris Carpenter, it was utter-belief to everyone involved in Cardinal Nation.

Well, atleast everybody else aside from the man behind it all, Chris Carpenter himelf.

Despite him being major disappointed with the news, and the fact that he would miss a long period of the season at the very least, there was no doubt in his own mind that by the seasons end, he would be back out on that mound starting for the 2011 world series champs. 

"I knew all along that rehabbing from this surgery was going to be one of the hardest times in my baseball career," Carpenter said months after he started his assignments. "But at this point in my career, and as determined as I have been through it all, I knew I would be making an appearance back out on that mound."

Before the 37 year-old former Cy Young award winner even picked the ball up in Jupiter, Florida--many experts, fans around the league, and even myself included; had serious doubt that the St. Louis pitching icon would ever pitch again at all in the MLB.

Proudly, as remarkable and excellent as his work ethic is and has been, it's certainly no shock to hear or see him make a comeback. 

Last season in 2011, the year that this team made one of--if not the greatest--postseason comebacks that the history of the sport has ever seen or witnessed--Carpenter had an amazing game five complete-game shutout performance to beat Roy Halladay and the Phillies in the NLDS--and a season Carpenter finished the regular season with 273 1/3 innings pitched--which was his highest total in the previous three.

With all of the surrounding news around and surrounding the St. Louis Cardinals clubhouse and organization; news was leaking that Carpenter was supposed to get the start that Matheny gave to Lance Lynn in the Dodgers series opener on Thursday--but following the decision of not giving it to him on Thursday; Carp was given a 90-pitch simulated start tonight (results unknown yet) and if all goes well--he could and should be making his return next week against the Houston Astros.

While there hasn't been much good news surrounding our defending champions over a seemingly long amount of time--the fact that Chris Carpenter has worked this hard just to have an opportunity at a repeat of 2011; it sure does give all of Cardinal Nation something to hang our heads held high over.

Pre-Gamin' with RedBird Nation: [at Dodgers] 8:05pm

Less than twenty-four hours ago, Luis Cruz and the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the defending champions 8 to 5 and evened up the four game weekend series. Tonight though, they will be looking for there second straight win and with a win would be tied with the Cardinals for the final wild card spot in the National League.

With an expected sellout crowd rocking inside of Dodgers Stadium, the Cardinals will be sending Jaime Garcia (4-7, 4.42 era) to the mound--as he will going head to head on the mound against LA's Joe Blanton (9-13, 4.98 era). Tonight's contest will be delivering the first pitch at 8:15 St. Louis time and will be televised on FOX Sports Midwest. 

Here is a quick look at tonight's Cardinals starting lineup:

1. Jon Jay (Centerfield)
2. Matt Carpenter (Right Field)
3. Matt Holliday (Left Field)
4. Allen Craig (First Base)
5. Yadier Molina (Catcher)
6. David Freese (Third Base)
7. Skip Schumaker (Second Base)
8. Daniel Descalso (Shortstop)
9. Jaime Garcia (Pitcher)

Cardinals' need to make big statement this weekend

Following both the St. Louis Cardinals and the Los Angeles Dodgers splitting the first two of a four game series over the weekend inside Dodgers' Stadium; these next two game for the defending champions are blooming bigger than the expectations were entering it.

As we all know, overcoming the history books in the MLB is nothing unknown to these Saint Louis Cardinals--considering they broke all barriers last season as they won their eleventh world title in franchise history--in what many now say was the greatest World Series series ever.

But with all of the injuries--and downfalls that this team has had. As well as the distractions of many events--and not to mention the departure of both one of the greatest managers of all-time (Tony LaRussa) and a walking baseball icon to the city (Albert Pujols)--these next two games will have a lot to do with how the 2012 comeback Cardinals' book could finish off.

Many people call me crazy with me saying that--and I wouldn't argue that opinion if you had it. Sure--we could split the next two and finish it with being one game ahead as the series had started out--and even I would be satisfied--but not impressed.

I know that the final twenty games or less include a lot of teams going nowhere this season; such as nine games against the likes of the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros--and winning series' possibilities against the likes of such the Washington Nationals and the Cincinnati Reds (both of which are at home inside Busch Stadium as well)--but my gut isn't very confident in that with anything less than a sweep.

Following the injuries to Rafael Furcal and now the news breaking just yesterday about Lance Berkman's season coming to an end--confidence from here on out is huge in order for these new-look defending champions to be a serious threat at making that run at yet another world title--the twelth to be exact.

Rumors have been leaking all over lately that starting pitcher Chris Carpenter could be making his return to the Cardinals and to the MLB this coming up next week--and with his addition to an already above solid starting rotation that we have--he could be a big, big boost of confidence and a major amount of intimidation to every team around the league. If Matheny can manage to get a healthy Carpenter added in for these last few weeks--the edge in every start of his, Wainwright--and at this point, Lohse--we should always feel we will win.

There isn't much baseball left to be played in the 2012 regular season--but then again in a sense; there is a whole bunch of baseball to be played. With three weeks remaining in the season, four teams are all in the race with the Cardinals and are seperated by a insecurely four games--with St. Louis owning just a one game lead over the current opponent--Dodgers.

Certainly, with the wild card race surely to be intense and crazy from now until the last and final day of the season, the Cardinals currently control there own destiny--but with that said, confidence will be the main key and it all needs to begin starting tonight when Jaime Garcia is on the mound with a one-game wild card lead over LA with Joe Blanton on the mound.

The key to having another shot at the twelth title in 2012, it all will come down to the overall team play of the Cardinals' offense, defense, starting pitching, bullpen, and Cardinal Nation to all come together all at once. Let's get the party started!

Luis Cruz, Dodgers defeat Cardinals 8-5 on Friday

Luis Cruz greeted the St. Louis Cardinals reliever Trevor Rosenthal with a three-run home run in the bottom of the sixth--and the Los Angeles Dodgers went on to defeat the defending champions 8 to 5 on Friday night.

The Dodgers pulled back to within one game of the Cardinals for the second and final wild card spot--and evened the current four game series between the two teams with still tomorrow and Sunday still to go inside Dodger Stadium.

The Cardinals got off to a quick 2-0 lead after home runs from both Yadier Molina and Matt Carpenter in the top-half of the second inning--but that didn't last for long.

Cruz drove home Adrian Gonzalez on a ground out to the shortstop in the bottom half of the third to cut the deficit in half at 2-1 before Matt Holliday hit his 28th home run that drove in two to make it 4-1 heading into the fourth inning.

With the Cardinals leading by a score of 4-1 heading into the bottom of the third, the Dodgers offense finally woke up. Andre Either hit a two-run bomb to make it 4-3--and following a few scoreless frames from each, Cruz' three run home run put the Dodgers up 6-4--which proved to be the game winner.

Rosenthal (0-2) got the lost for the Cardinals--despite a good outing from starting pitcher Joe Kelly. Kelly pitched five innings and allowed three runs on four hits--along with two strikeouts and two walks apiece.

As for the Dodgers, starting pitcher Chris Capuano pitched four and one-third innings and allowed four runs (two earned) on just six hits--but earned a no decision. Tolleson (2-1) picked up the win on the night. 

The Dodgers got added extra RBIs from Gonzalez as he added two more in the ninth--while Skip Schumaker added in one himself for the Cardinals in the ninth--ultimately making the final be 8-to-5.
The Cardinals got home runs from Matt Holliday (27), Yadier Molina (19), and Matt Carpenter (6). 

The third game of this four game series will be airing tomorrow night at 8:10 pm Central Time with Cardinals Pregame Live starting at 7:30pm Central Time featured a pitching matchup of Jaime Garcia and Joe Blanton with the Cardinals leading the final playoff spot over the Dodgers by just one game once again.

Pre-Gamin' with RedBird Nation: [at Dodgers] 9:10pm

Following last night's inspiring 2-to-1 victory over the new-look Los Angeles Dodgers; the two teams will be back at it again tonight for just the second of a four game series for the two ballclubs this weekend on the west coast; at the home of the Dodgers.

Behind an excellent outing from starting pitcher Lance Lynn--as well as some clutch hitting off of the bats of Allen Craig and Skip Schumaker--the defending world champions bumped there lead in the wild card race to two games; and will look to continue building it up over the next three games.

Tonight's game will feature a pitching matchup of the Cardinals' Joe Kelly (5-6, 3.51 ERA) and the Dodgers' Chris Capuano (11-10, 3.51 ERA). The Dodgers enter the game looking to end a four game losing skid; while the defending champions look to build on last night's win as they had previously lost four in a row also.

In Kelly's season against the Dodgers, he is 0-1 with a 3.00 earned-run average as he allowed three runs on four hits through six pretty strong innings of work. As for the Dodgers' starter Chris Capuano; in his career against the Redbirds in 2012, he is 0-1 as well with one outing as he allowed six runs on eleven hits.

Here is a quick look at the lineup that Mike Matheny has put together for the defending champion Saint Louis Cardinals for tonight's second game of the four game set for tonight's contest:

1. Jon Jay (Centerfield)
2. Carlos Beltran (Right Field)
3. Matt Holliday (Left Field)
4. Allen Craig (First Base)
5. Yadier Molina (Catcher)
6. David Freese (Third Base)
7. Matt Carpenter (Second Base)
8. Pete Kozma (Shortstop)
9. Joe Kelly (Starting Pitcher)

Tonight's game will bring you the first pitch at 9:10 pm Central Time with pregame airing on FOX Sports Midwest Saint Louis starting at 8:30pm Central Time. 

Cardinals Baseball Schedule for Remainder of Season

Game 145- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Los Angeles Dodgers (9:10pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 146- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Los Angeles Dodgers (8:10pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 147- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Los Angeles Dodgers (3:10pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)

***(Thursday, September 13th through Sunday, September 16th)***

Game 148- Houston Astros @ Saint Louis Cardinals (7:15pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 149- Houston Astros @ Saint Louis Cardinals (7:15pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 150- Houston Astros @ Saint Louis Cardinals (12:45pm CT- FOX Sports Midwest)

***(Tuesday, September 18th through Thursday, September 20th)***

Game 151- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Chicago Cubs (1:20pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 152- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Chicago Cubs (12:05pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 153- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Chicago Cubs (1:20pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)

***(Friday, September 21st through Sunday, September 23rd)***

Game 154- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Houston Astros (7:05pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 155- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Houston Astros (7:05pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 156- Saint Louis Cardinals @ Houston Astros (7:05pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest

***(Monday, September 24th through Wednesday, September 26th)***

Game 157- Washington Nationals @ Saint Louis Cardinals (7:15pm CT- FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 158- Washington Nationals @ Saint Louis Cardinals (6:15pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 159- Washington Nationals @ Saint Louis Cardinals (1:15pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)

***(Friday, September 28th through Sunday, September 30th)***

Game 160- Cincinnati Reds @ Saint Louis Cardinals (7:15pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 161- Cincinnati Reds @ Saint Louis Cardinals (7:15pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)
Game 162- Cincinnati Reds @ Saint Louis Cardinals (7:15pm CT - FOX Sports Midwest)

***(Monday, October 1st through Wednesday, October 3rd)***

This weekend could be make-or-break for Cardinals

As the 2011 defending world-champion Saint Louis Cardinals began a four-game series on Thursday night when they were hosted by the Los Angeles Dodgers; everybody around the baseball world knew the importance of this four-game weekend series for the Cardinals--as well as for the Los Angeles Dodgers too.

Entering Thursday night's late evening contest-start--the Cardinals lead the Dodgers by just one full game.

Following the Cardinals' 2-to-1 thrilling victory in the opener last night; following just the first of an anticpated four excellent games between the two ball clubs--the Cardinals took a two game lead over LA in the battle for the National Leagues' last and final spot for the newly-reincarnated second wild card spot.

Thanks to newly invented league rule (which despite me not agreeing with it; I find it as a blessing at the moment, LOL), this series taking place over this whole weekend, for all of the eyes that aren't soley focused on college football and the NFL as well--will be having there eyes and ears radared in on these next three matchups between Friday night up until Sunday afternoon.

With a few more teams making there voices heard and being brought into this Wild Card coversation--it makes it all for much more interesting events that could and likely will take place.

First season manager Mike Matheny has his work quit out for him obvously; but if he can get this boat steering into the right direction--a playoff berth and a world-title opportunity could be in fare sight.

Just because the defending champions won tonight though, means nothing with still three weeks left. The team learned yesterday that they lost Lance Berkman for the remainder of the season which would include the post-season as well--also may be hearing soon that that is also the case with the teams regularly starting shortstop Rafael Furcal as well. If it happens, it's certainly a damper--as well as a shame--but something that this team can overcome.

The Cardinals have the talent to repeat as champions--but will need to find some more spark plugs similarly to how they did in both 2006 and last season (2011) as well.

Many talks have been brought up surrounding a possible return from ace-pitcher Chris Carpenter. If the Cardinals can get him back into that starting rotation--or even the bullpen if needed--it would certainly add a big boost to this team and to there confidence. 

There really isn't much left to say about the situation--but while the team has been on a roller coaster with many ups and downs--they still have the talent to make noise and win yet again another world title. With all of this being said--it's all on the current players on this team to make it happen. With a two-game lead and three weeks remaining in the regular season--do the defending champions want yet another opportunity to win their twelve title--or watch there season crumble right in front of there own eyes?

Only time will tell , folks. Only time will tell the whole tail.

Cards' need big things from Beltran and Holliday; NOW!

When you look at the 2012 Saint Louis Cardinals everyday players; and there batting order night-in and night-out--without hesitation--one thing goes through everybody's mind--Carlos Beltran and Matt Holliday both need to do big things. Ya know, like produce big MVP-like numbers.

When Matt Holliday made his way over the Cardinals during a trade at mid-season; his goal was to form the greatest 3-4 hitting combo of all-time--except with him being the number four behind the likes of the great-Albert Pujols.

But in all honesty, while I certainly won't expect--nor ever believe that that is quite possible anymore with the departure of Mr. AP--I do however expect big and productive things out of the new 3-4 hitters--and for now, that means both of the likes of Matt Holliday--and first-season teammate, Carlos Beltran.

At the current moment, as of the conclusion of the team's 2-to-1 win over the Dodgers--Beltran has been nothing short of a streaky hitter--as meaning that for one month he is hot--but then the next month he is ice cold. On the season Beltran is batting .263 at the plate--and has the team lead in home runs (29) and has the teams second most RBI with 87 total.

Through the months of April through September, his averages seem to be up--then falter. His batting average by month has gone from him hitting .256, .326, .337, .200, .211, and now in the month of September, he is once again slumping .207.

As for Matt Holliday--who as of right now is the face of this franchise on the offensive-side of the game--is hitting .299 from the plate this team--and has currently posted the teams' highest amount of RBIs with 94--and has twenty-six home runs--which is good enough for second on the team as he trails Beltran by just three for the team lead.

The two players have combined for 291 total hits as Holliday has 161--with Beltran having 130. The two teammates have combined also for a National League due-lead in doubles with 58. 

ALBERT WHO?!?! Not that that quote had anything to do with him--just thought that I would add that in as a knock on the man and his team that may nor--and I hope don't--make the MLB post-season.

WHAT THE CARDINALS NEED FROM MATT HOLLIDAY: 
We most certainly need him to come through with some clutch-hits over the next hopefully month and a half--but for now, just the next couple of weeks so that the team just makes the playoffs--which includes him hitting with runners in scoring position (RISP), Thus far through the season, Matt is hitting .250 (36-for-144) in that situation--and if we are going to make the post-season, that needs to change, drastically.

Also, his play in the out-field is above suberb; and if we know anything about that a few times in the past--he needs to continue his outfield play from this season--and not the past.

WHAT THE CARDINALS NEED FROM CARLOS BELTRAN:
Normally defense is Carlos' best aspect when it comes to his game--and knowing how he plays, many including myself have just come to suspect that from him every single play. A few things we need from this man includes better or just more aggressive baserunning--more clutch hitting as well--and possibly for the man that this same team could NEVER stop--nor even contain in post-season baseball--to continue that again.

Los' is always pretty aggressive on the base paths; but him doing it more often would help out quite a bit in my opinion--and not to forget, possibly give this team a much-needed spark. While Beltran owns twenty-four doubles and one triple--he also has been caught five of thirteen times attempting to steal--and while that's not that bad--he certainly could have better numbers. Also, another big thing to prove, is better hitting with runners in scoring position. So far this season, Beltran is hitting .278 (37-for-133) and if he can get himself on a hot strike and improve on that--this team could once again become very, very scary and dangerous.

Performance from Lance Lynn gives champs' hope

Following the defending-champion Saint Louis Cardinals' 2-to-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgders in the first of four meetings that started on Thursday night in LA, nothing was more impressive and meaningful to St. Louis than the performance of the games' starting pitcher, Lance Lynn.

Despite Lynn's recent struggles over the past few months following the blistering hot-start, Lance made his first start tonight against LA since his 4-1/3 innings pitched start in which he recieved a no-decision against the Pittsburgh Pirates on August 18th in a game he four runs (three earned) in a 5-4 Cardinals win inside Busch Stadium.

Since being demoted down to the bullpen--and going through some rough struggles; Lynn was announced the fill-in starter for the injured Jake Westbrook for Thursday night's Dodgers' opener--and after some disagreement with quite a few fans--he came through and impressed the baseball world.

Lance pitched six strong innings--and allowed just one run and five hits. Lynn struck out seven Dodgers hitters; walking just two as well. Following the 2-to-1 win, he picked up his fifteenth win on the season--making him the team-leader in the wins department--and becoming the first Cardinals' pitcher to reach 15 wins in the regular season since 2002.

Although this was just one game in which he has once again started to look dominant and sharp; it is certainly a cause for some hope around the family that is 'Cardinal Nation'. While Lynn isn't a Roger Clemens or Pedro Martinez of this era; he is certainly a pitcher that if he can be on come playoff time and in the month of October, he most definently be a huge weapon from the pen--or the starting mound--especially with the likes of both Adam Wainwright and now possibly Chris Carpenter out there on the mound as well.

The performance from Lynn tonight gave the team and the city of Saint Louis a little bit of breathing room following the win as the team improved to two games above the number-one team trailing them for the National League wild card's final spot--making the Cardinals lead the Dodgers by two games now entering the second-of-four games on Friday night in which will deliever the first pitch at 9:10 pm Central Time.

Cardinals beat Dodgers 2-1; extend Wild Card race lead

In a game that included everything that a deep-heated battle for the fifth and final spot in National League that it could have included--tonight's 2-to-1 Cardinals win over the Dodgers had it all.

In a low-scoring affair between the two ball-clubs, following an early 1-to-0 lead from the trailing Dodgers of  Los Angeles, the defending champions did what they have done the best over the past year around--and that is find once again yet another way to win when it matters the most.

The Dodgers got an RBI single in the bottom of the first from Adrian Gonzalez in which was a double to deep left-field that drove in the likes of Mark Ellis to give the fighting-Dodgers a quick 1-to-0 lead in the bottom half of the first inning.

Quickly following that, the defending-champion Cardinals got on the scoreboard themselves in the top half of the second-inning following an RBI single to left from Skip Schumaker that scored Yadier Molina and advanced Carlos Beltran to second base--but the threat ended then.

From the bottom of the second up until the top of the seven-inning; both pitching staffs held there own ground as the game stayed at 0-0 all the way up until the seventh inning. 

Lance Lynn, who pitched six-innings strong on the night, gave up just one run on five hits--as well as striking out seven batters and allowing just two walks--recieved the victory on the game--following a scoreless bullpen outing as the likes of Mujica, Boggs, and Motte combined for no runs allowed in three innings-pitched with allowing just one hit and zero runs. The win for Lynn improved his record to 15-7 and improved the Cardinals overall to 76-68.

As for the Dodgers, Josh Beckett lasted 5 1/3 innings in the games--giving up just one run on seven hits--as well as striking out six batters on the night along with just two walks himself. Steven Rodriguez recieved the loss on the night as he allowed the go-ahead and ultimately the game winning run in the seven on the RBI single from Allen Craig that drove in Matt Carpenter--which was proven to be the game-winner.

The Cardinals out-hit the Dodgers 10-to-6 total--and with the win--improved to a two-game lead over the Dodgers in the NL Wild Card's final spot with still three more head-to-head meetings in Los Angeles over the next three days (Friday through Sunday). 

Cardinals' closer Jason Motte improved his save total to 34 overall--which is good enough to be tied with three other closes in the National League to be tied for second--and just one save behind the NL leader in Arodolis Chapman--who currently holds 35 saves on the season.

The Cardinals and Dodgers will now duke it out for the second game of this four gamer tomorrow night starting at 9:10 pm Central Time as the game will be televised on FOX Sports Midwest. The pitching matchup will feature the likes of the Cardinals' Joe Kelly and the Dodgers' Chris Capuano.

National League Wild Card race becoming just that

With the additional wild-card teams in each league this season, it seemed that perhaps something would be lost in the pennant race. After all, the Boston Red Sox and Atlanta Braves would have made the playoffs last season instead of finishing off historic (and lingering) collapses.

But the possibility for drama is very real, especially in the National League.

The Braves are looking good to erase that pain from last season, with a 5.5-game lead of the Saint Louis Cardinals as of today and a pretty solid hold on the number four spot in the National League.

But our defending champions aren't a shoo-in at number five at all. They've lost three in a row entering tonight's huge four-game series against the new-look Dodgers--and speaking of Los Angeles, the Dodgers are currently on their heels--despite them having three straight losses as well.

Catching this theme? Nobody seems to want the fifth playoff spot, and three teams that won their divisions last season are making very improbable pushes for that final spot themselves.

• The Philadelphia Phillies basically gave up in July, dealing Shane Victorino and Joe Blanton to the Dodgers. They're now just two-games behind the Dodgers at 72-71 after winning their seventh game in a row. With a four-game series against the pitiful Astros this weekend, the Phillies are still very much alive to keep their five-year playoff streak alive. Roy Halladay or Cole Hamels in a one-game wild card? That's a tough matchup for anybody.
• The Milwaukee Brewers dealt Zack Grienke to the Angels in July, but are also 72-71 and have won three in a row. They've scored the most runs in the National League, and host the Mets this weekend in a very-much winnable series.
• And the Arizona Diamondbacks have been right around .500 all season. They're 71-72 right now--and have both the Giants and Padres this weekend--which means a strong performance in them two series--could mean a whole different outlook on there playoff chances, whether it's north or south.

So that's six current contenders for one final playoff spot in the National League--and what's crazy--all four are seperated by just four games and less than three weeks to sort it all out. This has all the ingredients for a very crazy ending to a very entertaining and crazy 2012 MLB regular season.

Just imagine that if the season has fulfilled us with this much drama--what exactly could the post-season have in store for us? Not sure, and who knows--but as the rest of my RedBird Nation will say--who cares as long as it involves our beloved defending-world champion Saint Louis Cardinals.

Pre-Gamin' with RedBird Nation: [at Dodgers] 9:10pm

The past few weeks of baseball for the defending champion-Saint Louis Cardinals most certainly haven't been very pleasant whatsoever--but with all of that being said--this team has the potential to catch fire at just about every time out on the field.

Well, tonight, would indeed be just as big as any game as well as the perfect time to do so. With the Los Angeles Dodgers trailing the Cardinals by one game in the National League Wild Card spot--as well as the Pittsburgh Pirates (2.5 GB) and both the Philadelphia Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers--who are both three games behind--no series to this date in 2012 becomes more meaningful when it comes to the month of October.

Tonight, both the Cardinals and Dodgers open up a four game series on the West Coast as the Dodgers will be hosting our Cardinals for four straight games. Following the Cards being swept by the likes of this season's lowly Padres--if the Cardinals want to sniff the post-season once again--it must start right here, right now, as in tonight.

Here is a quick glimpse at the 2011 defending World-Champions' lineup that first-season manager Mike Matheny has put together for the 9:10 pm Central Time (Saint Louis time) first pitch with the pitching matchup that features the Cardinals' Lance Lynn and the Dodgers' Josh Beckett.

1. Jon Jay (Centerfield)
2. Matt Carpenter (Third Base)
3. Matt Holliday (Left Field)
4. Allen Craig (First Base)
5. Yadier Molina (Catcher)
6. Carlos Beltran (Right Field)
7. Skip Schumaker (Second Base)
8. Daniel Descalso (Shortstop)
9. Lance Lynn (Pitcher)

Cardinals Baseball Update: Quest for 12-in-12 Continues

Gm. 129: WASHINGTON NATIONALS 10, St. Louis Cardinals 0

Gm. 130: St. Louis Cardinals 10, WASHINGTON NATIONALS 9

Gm. 131: WASHINGTON NATIONALS 4, St. Louis Cardinals 3

Gm. 132: ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 5, New York Mets 4

Gm. 133: ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 5, Washington Nationals 1

Gm. 134: New York Mets 6, ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 2

Gm. 135: Milwaukee Brewers 5, ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 3

Gm. 136: Milwaukee Brewers 6, ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 3

Gm. 137: ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 5, Milwaukee Brewers 4

Gm. 138: SAN DIEGO PADRES 11, St. Louis Cardinals 3

Gm. 139: SAN DIEGO PADRES 6, St. Louis Cardinals 4

Gm. 140: SAN DIEGO PADRES 3, St. Louis Cardinals 2

Since the last time that I had an opportunity to update the blog, the defending-world baseball champions have been in the middle of a current slide—they have the chance to regain some ground on getting some breathing room for the National League’s last and final Wild Card Spot—as they are hosted by the Dodgers for four games on the road starting tonight at 9:10 pm Central Time.

As this is the first tenure for Mike Matheny as an MLB manager,  this season has been quite a roller-coaster ride—and in all honesty—and indeed, one that hasn’t had many pleasant moments on the good side of events.

With just twenty-games remaining in the 2012 regular season, the team just heard news that Lance Berkman will undergo season-ending knee surgery and will miss the remainder of the season (and playoffs included)—while they also without the likes of the team’s starting shortstop in Rafael Furcal—although he could return for postseason if the defending champions do indeed make an appearance.

Despite all of the bad news that has been mentioned; reports surrounding the team’s Ace on the mound---Chris Carpenter—he may be returning to the startng rotation as soon as this weekend in the Dodgers’ in Los Angeles—as long as the rehab continues to go as it has been.

With the team being out of the Central division race—the Wild Card is realistically the teams only chance at a repeat at bring home their twelvth World baseball Championship.

Tonight’s contest will deliver it’s first pitch at 9;10 pm Central/ St. Louis time. Entering the game the Cardinals lead the Dodgers by just one game for the last and final playoff spot—which makes this weekend series all that much more important.

Cards' expanding rosters on Saturday; Berkman returns

The Saint Louis Cardinals--as well as every other team in Major League Baseball, will be expanding their rosters on this coming up Saturday (September 1st)--and veteran slugger first-baseman Lance Berkman will be activated after another long wait on the disabled list.

Manager Mike Matheny said himself in an interview to expect a "couple pitchers and a few position players." Berkman finished up his rehab assignment on Thursday night in Triple-A Memphis after he singled in his first and only at-bat after he was taken out for a pinch-runner because of the wet and slick conditions in the rain.

He finished his entire rehab assignment batting a lowly 3-for-17 with three walks and three strikeouts. While he isn't on fire or even close--and coming off a long layoff from the sport--but his bat could still be much needed--especially if the way that Furcal was feeling comes true; then he is most certainly needed.

Top pitching prospect Shelby Miller is not on the team's 40 man roster. The Cardinals have kept quiet over the past couple of days about the prospects and whether or not Miller will be rewarded for his recent success as he is considered among the group of pitchers that most likely--nobody will be enough to trade him away kind of player.

Other players the Cardinals want to call up for the season's final month have to be on the club's 40-man roster to be eligible for consideration. There are currently 39 players on that roster, meaning the Cardinals have the flexibility to add someone else.

Furcal strains elbow; heading back to St. Louis tomorrow

St. Louis Cardinals starting shortstop man Rafael Furcal may have played his last game of the season according to how he felt following a few throws that he made in the bottom of the sixth inning during Thursday night's game.

In the aftermath of the defending champions' 8-to-1 loss in the opener of a four game series against the Washington Nationals, following back-to-back throws Furcal made from second base to home plate, Rafael strained his right elbow--which in this situation--may just be the worst of the situation considering he throw's with his right hand despite batting left-handed.

 

During press-conferences following the game on Thursday, Furcal was asked whether or not he was concerned that the injury might affect the rest of the season or if it could possibly make him miss the rest of the season. When asked that particular question, Furcal responded with:

Sort of, it's bad. My wish is nothing crazy. 

Furcal, who started the season as the Cardinals leadoff man at the plate, is hitting a decisively low .264 overall with five home runs and 49-RBIs. Following a pretty fast start to the season at the plate, he has been on a slide for quite some time now--and was moved back down to eighth in the batting order.

Matheny stated about the entire situation in the post-game press-conferences:

You can't really describe it as losing a piece right now until we get all the information. He's been a phenomenal part of this team. He's had a great season.

 This certainly isn't the news that Cardinal Nation is wanting to hear right about this time. Losing a player such as Furcal would hurt in the fact that it certainly dims down our depth for the infield--and may just provide another chance given to Tyler Greene--which may possibly be my most disliked Cardinal player of all-time (lol). In all seriousness, lets really all just hope that the results of his MRI's come back negative. We would truly be missing out on a big piece to this teams' puzzle.

Nationals scored early and often; beat Cards 8-1

The Washington Nationals started off fast and finished the same way on Thursday night when they defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 8 to 1 in the first of four games inside the nations' capital this weekend.

Bryce Harper hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the first-inning after the table was set up from Jayson Werth getting on base with a single off Cards' starter Jaime Garcia.

Jayson Werth also hit a home run of his own--making the score at the time of 4-to-0 in the fourth inning. Both Werth and Harper combined for four runs and five runs batted in on four hits in nine total at-bats.

Entering tonight's contest, the Cardinals had not scored a run in twenty-two straight innings--but finally broke that string of scoreless innings in the top of the eighth inning--and that lone run was scored upon an error from a hit off the bat of Jon Jay that scored Bryan Anderson.

Washington's starting pitcher--former St. Louis Cardinal world champion of 2006, Edwin Jackson, struck out a career-high ten Redbirds and dominated the Cards for eight innings as he gave up just one run on four hits--making his record 8-9 overall on the season. 

The Cardinals' matched Jackson up head for head with the likes of the struggling lefty, Jaime Garcia--and for the fourth time in his last six starts, he recieved the loss as he went just five and one-third innings--giving up six runs on nine hits, dropping his record to 3-6 overall on the season.

The Cardinals finished the game with just four hits--and the trio of Jon Jay, Carlos Beltran and Matt Holliday all finished with no hits and two strikeouts each. 

With the fact that the Pittsburgh Pirates had the day off--they are now just a half game behind the Cardinals in the Wild Card race and as of this moment the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are a game out following the Nationals win, and are trailing 2-0 to Arizona in the top of the sixth. 

The Cardinals and Nationals will be back at it again tomorrow as it will be the second game of their current four game series in Washington. The defending champs will look to build on there now 71-60 record with Adam Wainwright on the mound.

Pre-Gamin' with RedBird Nation: [at Nationals] 6:05pm

Tonight marks the start of a four game series and the end to the St. Louis Cardinals' current ten-game road trip as they are hosted by the National League East's leading Washington Nationals.

The defending champions are 3-3 on the road trip that will come to an end on Sunday following these next four games. The Cardinals started it off right by beating the Cincinnati Reds two out of three games but then followed it up by losing two of three to the Pirates--which now has them just one game out in the race for the final Wild Card spot in the National League.

Washington enters tonight's contest with an overall record of 78-51 and has a five-game lead over the second-place Atlanta Braves in the National League East. The Nats will send former Cardinal and World Series champion Edwin Jackson to the mound against Jaime Garcia--in the return of Yadier Molina.

Here is a look at the lineup that manager Mike Matheny put together for his squad for tonight's contest:

1. Jon Jay (Centerfield)
2. Carlos Beltran (Right Field)
3. Matt Holliday (Left Field)
4. Allen Craig (First Base)
5. Yadier Molina (Catcher)
6. David Freese (Third Base)
7. Skip Schumaker (Second Base)
8. Rafael Furcal (Shortstop)
9. Jaime Garcia (Starting Pitcher)

BREAKING NEWS: Yadier Molina returning to the lineup

According to an inside source from around the Saint Louis Cardinals organization, the word has been spreading around the clubhouse that four-time Gold-Glove catching catcher Yadier Molina will be returning to the defending champions lineup and behind home plate in tonight's opening game of the Cardinals' four game series against the Washington Nationals.

Molina, who was involved in a collision on a play at the plate with the Pirates' Josh Harrison during Tuesday nights 9-to-0 loss, was diagnosed with strains to his upper back, left shoulder, and his neck and had missed the game yesterday in which the Pirates won five to zero.

The initial play at the plate that caused the injury to Yadi was one that was very-highly talked about from around the league but in the end to many, was a clean play at the plate--just a hard-nosed effort.

This is very good news for the Cardinals, considering Molina is having a career-season at plate with the bat in his hands--as well as having the best percentage of base-runners thrown out from a catcher, once again. It is starting to become blatantly obvious that their really isn't anybody more important to any ball club than Molina is to the Cardinals.

Making the move a little more interesting is the fact that the Cardinals will be facing former teammate Edwin Jackson tonight--and in Yadi's career against the starting pitcher, he is 7-for-8 (.875) with one home run and a walk as well. Tonight's game will deliver the first pitch at 6:05pm Central Time and will be televised on FOX Sports Midwest; as well as the MLB Network.

Cardinals, Nationals battle in possible playoff preview

The Saint Louis Cardinals will be looking to rebound from their previous series loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates and end this current ten-game road trip as they battle it out against the National League East's leading Washington Nationals for four games starting tonight in the nation's capital in what could be a possible playoff series preview.

The Nationals (78-51) are currently ahead of the Atlanta Braves by five games for the division title in the East while the Cardinals (71-59) are currently in the final wild card spot in the National League as both the Pittsburgh Pirates (1 GB) and the Los Angeles Dodgers (1.5 GB) are right on their tails.

Tonight's game will be the first of seven meetings between the two teams in the final month as this weekend they will play four in DC--and then meet again for three more in St. Louis at Busch Stadium on the final weekend of the regular season. Last season the two ball clubs met six times with the Nationals coming out on top in four of the six overall.

The defending world-champion Cardinals are 3-3 entering the final stop on there ten game road trip; and are in need of some much-needed wins. Every game from here on out will continue to build up to be bigger and bigger as the Wild Card spot could very well come down to the final day of the season--but the same could be said for the Nationals as well.

Washington hasn't made a postseason appearance since 1981 when they were formerly known as the Montreal Expos--and with still over thirty games remaining, while five games is a decent lead--we learned last season that no lead is safe, and the team that is trailing them for the division crown (the Braves), is the one team that knows all to well about that.

Here is a preview of this weekend's four game series between two of the best teams that the National League has to offer:

Game 1-Thursday, August 30th: 6:05pm Central Time: FOX Sports Midwest/MLB Network
(STL) Jaime Garcia (3-5, 4.15 ERA) against (WSH) Edwin Jackson (7-9, 3.72 ERA)

Game 2-Friday, August 31st: 6:05pm Central Time: FOX Sports Midwest
(STL) Adam Wainwright (13-10, 3.63 ERA) versus (WSH) Gio Gonzalez (16-7, 3.28 ERA)

Game 3-Saturday, September 1st: 3:05pm Central Time: FOX Regionally
(STL) Kyle Lohse (14-2, 2.64 ERA) versus (WSH) Jordan Zimmerman (9-8, 2.63 ERA)

Game 4-Sunday, September 2nd: 12:35pm Central Time: FOX Sports Midwest
(STL) Jake Westbrook (13-10, 3.94 ERA) versus (WSH) Stephen Strasburg (15-6, 3.05 ERA)

Are the 2012 Washington Nationals REALLY this good?

As the defending-champion Saint Louis Cardinals get set to open up a four game series against the Washington Nationals, the question everybody is really wanting to know is; are the National League East leaders' really this good?

Two words in my mind sum up the exact answer to that question; heck yes!

Despite the team being one of the youngest in the entire league, and not having much-to-any postseason experience under there belts, the Nationals are indeed a nitty unit that have just about as much potential as any other team in the majors.

As they enter tonight's series opener, Washington (78-51) currently holds a five game lead over the Atlanta Braves in the East division title race--and not only do they know how to win at home; they are importantly also one of the best teams in all of the Major League's on the road. They are currently twelve games over .500 in front of the home crowd (36-24), they are even better away from home, as they are fifteen games over the .500 mark (42-27).

Team manager Davey Johnson currently has the nattitude in order, as they are just a half game behind the Cincinnati Reds for the best record in all of baseball--which considering the fact that this franchise hasn't seen the postseason since they were the Montreal Expos' back in 1981, they are making everybody take notice--and sending a message that they will be around for a while.

As September is just days away, the Nationals are currently third overall in the league in runs scored/runs allowed differential as they are +96. The only two teams that are currently ahead of them in that category--last seasons' two World Series teams--the Cardinals (+113) and the Texas Rangers (+111).

On offense, they are led by guys such as Adam LaRoche, Ryan Zimmerman, Ian Desmond, and rookie sensation Bryce Harper (40). All three of LaRoche (78), Zimmerman (67) and Desmond (57) all have atleast 57 runs batted in--and also at least sixteen home runs.

Also, despite him missing a lot of time due to an ankle injury, Jayson Werth is also a major factor in this lineup when he is infact healthy. In just 51 games total in 2012, the Chatham, Illinois native is batting .301 at the plate with just three home runs and twenty-one RBIs. The rookie sensation that Harper has been, in 106 games played, he has hit fourteen home runs and an impressive 40 RBIs--including two home runs and three RBIs in last nights 8-to-4 victory over the Miami Marlins.

Aside from the offense, the pitching that this unit has is the main reason they are indeed title contenders in my opinion--without a single doubt in my mind. The pitching staff that the Nationals have has allowed the least amount of runs in the league as they have allowed 463--which is eleven less runs than the second-least of 474 from the Tampa Bay Rays.

In both a five game or seven game series in the post-season, there staff is built very nice--especially with the youth that they have. Stephen Strasburg is the ace and when he is on, there isn't many teams that can get inside his head. Him and Gio Gonzalez have combined for 31 wins on the season--and if healthy, form one of the best duo's in all of baseball.

Gonzalez has won sixteen games, Strasburg has won fifteen, and Jordan Zimmerman--who is possibly one of the best number three's in the majors, has won nine--but holds an ERA of 2.63. Edwin Jackson, who is a former Cardinal, also has been impressive this season--and has helped make this pitching rotation one of the deepest in the league.

In 60 total appearances so far this season, Nationals' closer Tyler Clippard has 28 saves in 32 opportunities and has an impressive total of just eighteen earned-runs allowed in 59 1/3 innings of relief. While he may not be the best, he's still a young kid with a high cieling--and when the kid is on and hitting his spots, not many players can hit him.

Also, an impressive stat that doesn't mean much come September and October--but does say something about the team--they own better than a .500 record over every division in baseball--which includes interleague play. They are 34-23 against there own division, 19-8 against the Central, 15-12 out West--and they finished 10-8 in interleague play.

While many people still have doubts about this team whether it be because of the youth, experience, lack of post-season or offense--the guys in that locker room all believe they can be just as good as anybody--and when it comes down to baseball in October--confidence is a huge part of it. As every baseball fan knows--especially us Cards' fans, just make it to the post-season and then anything and everything is possible. This season's Washington Nationals are legit.

Alvarez stays hot; Bucs blast Cards to win season series

The only good news that the defending world-champion Saint Louis Cardinals got on Wednesday night was the fact that they are done pitching to Pedro Alvarez.

The third baseman--who hit two home runs during last night's nine to zero win--proceeded right a long again tonight of continuing his season-long dominance of the defending 2011 world champions. In the bottom half of the third inning, he blasted his twenty-sixth bomb of the season and drove in three runs as the Pirates once again shut out St. Louis for the second straight game.

Wandy Rodriguez was impressive tonight as he pitched six scoreless innings, giving up just three hits and three strikeouts--but three walks on the night as well. The win was his ninth of the season and put the Pirates at just one game behind the Cardinals for the National League's final Wild Card spot.

The Cardinals managed to muster out just five hits on the night--and even worse, they haven't scored in the last twenty-one innings altogether--which isn't what you can afford to do at this time of the season if you're even thinking about doing something in October. St. Louis got two hits each from both of the likes of Tony Cruz and David Freese and just one from Carlos Beltran.

Joe Kelly made his first start back since the team made Lance Lynn move back to the bullpen and making Kelly a starter once again. He picked up the loss on the night and made his record fall to 4-6 overall. He lasted just five innings as he have up all five of the Pirates' runs on the night on eight hits and three walks. He struck out three and gave up one home run.

Trevor Rosenthal was certainly a bright spot for the defending champs tonight--as he pitched three scoreless innings out of the bullpen and struck out three batters while giving up just one hit. He was the only bullpen member that was used in the lost--but he improved his overall season ERA 2.35.

Pittsburgh blasted out nine total hits--but besides Alvarez's three run home run in the bottom of the third, Greg Jones doubled in the first to right field that scored Travis Snider. Josh Harrison singled to center and scored Alvarez in the bottom of the fifth--which made Pedro finish the night off with two runs scored.

Following tonight's game, everybody that the Cardinals are battling for the post season against all gained a game on the defending champs. The Reds, Braves, Dodgers and the Pirates of course, gained a game in the standings. The Dodgers are now a game and a half behind and the Pirates are now just one game behind--and hold the tie breaker in which would make Pittsburgh the host if their were to be a one game playoff between the two.

The Cardinals are now 3-3 on their current ten game road trip that will come to an end on Sunday following a four game series in the nations' capital against the National League East's leading Nationals.

PreGamin' with RedBird Nation: (at Pirates) 6:05pm

There is nothing better in the entire sport of baseball than the feeling of being involved in the hunt for the playoffs--and tonight, when the St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates battle it out for the last scheduled time in this 2012 season, their is quite a bit on the line for both teams.

The two National League Central opponents have both won seven games apiece and entering tonight's rubber match of their last three game series of the season, Saint Louis currently leads Pittsburgh by just two games in the race for the National League's final Wild Card spot.

Considering tonight will determine who wins the head-to-head battle for the season, if indeed their happens to be a one-game playoff between them, the winner of tonight's game would own home-field advantage--which isn't the best of news considering the team will be without four-time All-Star catcher Yadier Molina following his collision at the plate last night with Josh Harrison.

I'm certainly not going to call this an absolute must-win for the Cardinals tonight--as actually I feel it is for the Pirates--but it could go a long way in the end depending on how they respond from last night's 9-0 pounding that the defending champions. Joe Kelly will be going head-to-head on the mound against the Pirates' Wandy Rodriguez. Here is a quick look at the lineup for tonight's all-important game:

1. Jon Jay (CenterField)
2. Carlos Beltran (Right Field)
3. Matt Holliday (Left Field)
4. Allen Craig (First Base)
5. David Freese (Third Base)
6. Skip Schumaker (Second Base)
7. Tony Cruz (Catcher)
8. Rafael Furcal (Shortstop)
9. Joe Kelly (Starting Pitcher)