The Birds were (finally) able to plate some runs – the first of June, in fact! 7 to be more specific. So you figured that Jamie Garcia would be able to shut down the sub .500 Royals.
You figured WRONG.
A 6 run fifth inning erased a 4 run cushion, but the Cardinals were able to battle back and tie the game in the bottom of the frame before inching ahead by a run in the 6th off a Peter Borjous home run. So you figured that the bullpen was going to come in and shut this one down and end this miserable home stand on a high note.
You figured WRONG.
Pat Neshek remembered that he was Pat Neshek and our closer was once again an opener. Royals win 8-7. Good night. See you on the other side of Missouri in 20 hours.
The Cardinals are now 1 loss away from .500 and headed out on a roadie that includes series against the smokin’ hot Blue Jays, the always tough Rays and the talented Nationals. But not before they get 2 more against the suddenly surging Royals.
Even the Kolten Wong grand slam was tempered by his diving play in the 8th inning that appeared to tweak his shoulder. TBD on his status for Wednesday and beyond.
Meanwhile, the angst within The Nation rises. As the summer begins, the Cardinals are a team without a strong identity. The once stellar pitching has come back to earth. And the bats are prone to long stretches of deafening silence.
Let’s hope some time away pulls the men together.
Photo: Connecticut Wit
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