That mark is significant because it is the batting average of Cardinals starting pitcher Rick Ankiel, who was 1 for 3 in the game and has two homers and seven RBI this season. St. Louis right-hander Matt Morris, battling his way back from reconstructive elbow surgery, worked an inning of relief and picked up his first victory since Sept. 22, 1998. The Brewers were unable to capitalize, however. But Blanco also threw out Ray Lankford on a steal attempt in the top of the fourth. Blanco has thrown out eight of the last 11 runners attempting to steal and has nabbed 30 of 53 this season.
Lopes anticipates being short-handed again today.
Wright has adapted quickly to his new home park, going 3-1 in his seven home starts. He is 2-3 since the break, but the timing of this game could be a factor. This is just his fourth daytime start of the season. In 20 innings during the day, he has allowed 13 runs. First baseman Mark McGwire, sidelined since July 7 with patellar tendinitis, is not traveling with the Cardinals.