--Albert Pujols started the game as the DH but finished it at first base when manager Tony La Russa pinch-hit for Chris Duncan with Nick Stavinoha and did not leave the latter in the game.
--The Cardinals have lost three consecutive games but haven't had a four-game skid this season. --Rookie RHP Mitchell Boggs will seek his third straight win Saturday night.
--2B Adam Kennedy doubled in the second inning to extend his hitting streak to a season-high seven games.
--OF Ryan Ludwick was 0-for-15 before he singled in the eighth inning.
BY THE NUMBERS: 4 -- Number of runs Cardinals scored in three-game sweep by Kansas City. Number of runs they scored in each of the first two innings at Boston on June 21.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "It's really frustrating. I want to be one of those guys that is there all year that can really be counted on to contribute." -- RHP Adam Wainwright, sidelined with a sprained middle finger on his pitching hand.
