Notables:
- John Buck homered twice to give him 11 homers. It's been pointed out here and elsewhere already, but the contrast between what the ex-Royals catchers Buck and Miguel Olivo are doing versus what Jason Kendall is doing (signed for two years!) has to be depressing for Royals fans.
- Adam Wainwright recovered from a rough first inning to allow three runs over seven innings against the Mariners, striking out six while walking only one.
- Chris Tillman got thumped by the Giants, giving up six runs on six hits (including one homer) and a walk over two innings.
Save Chances:
- Kevin Gregg, converted (16). He struck out two while walking one.
Other Closer Outings:
- David Hernandez pitched for the first time since Thursday's save, getting the last out in the eighth while allowing one hit.
Non-Closer Outings:
- Scott Downs pitched a clean eighth, striking out one.
- Chad Cordero continued his comeback by throwing a scoreless inning against the Cardinals. Don't ignore him as a potential option for the M's in their late-inning picture eventually, especially with Mark Lowe out for the season.
Lineup-o-logy:
- Adam Lind was out of the starting lineup for the second time in three games, with the Jays on the road in interleague play.
- The Cardinals shifted their lineup around again, batting Matt Holliday second, Albert Pujols third and Ryan Ludwick fourth.
Injuries:
- Erick Aybar hyperextended his left knee on a play that initially looked much worse. He's officially day-to-day and while it would be surprise if he played on Tuesday, it looks like he might have avoided the worst-case scenario.
- Fred Lewis (foot) sat out again on Monday, though he later had a pinch-hit appearance.
- Albert Pujols was struck in the head by an errant throw at a play at home plate, but stayed in the game.
Transactions:
- The Cardinals activated Jeff Suppan, who will start on Tuesday.
Stolen Base:
- Craig Counsell (1).
Caught Stealing:
- Will Venable (3).
Home Runs:
- John Buck 2 (10,11); Adrian Gonzalez (15); Jerry Hairston Jr. (4); Ryan Braun (10); Casey McGehee (11); Pat Burrell (2nd NL homer); Matt Wieters (5); Ichiro Suzuki (2); Ryan Ludwick (11); Colby Rasmus (12).