St. Louis Cardinals Notes, Quotes 2009-05-02

--RHP Todd Wellemeyer never allowed more than two hits in any inning on Friday after giving up an average of nearly two hits an inning (37 in 22 innings) in his first four starts. "He got in an early groove and his concentration was great," said La Russa, who had become agitated at least once this season when he thought Wellemeyer had lost concentration.

--Cardinals starters finished April at 13-2. The relievers ended up 3-5 with five blown saves. But the bullpen has pitched much better after a rocky first couple of weeks.

--1B Albert Pujols finished April with eight homers and 28 RBIs after clubbing a two-run homer in the first inning off Washington RHP Daniel Cabrera. Pujols had been 6-for-31 (.194) on the road before having two hits in each of his last two games.

BY THE NUMBERS: 8 -- Grand slams for 1B Albert Pujols, who has just started his ninth season.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "I think you understand you're in the presence of a once-in-a-lifetime hitter." -- SS Khalil Greene on 1B Albert Pujols.

Author: Fox Sports

Author's Website: http://www.foxsports.com

Added: May 2, 2009